Politics
Protests in Iran escalate: opposition claims seizure of two cities, 36 dead
Mass protests in Iran have spread to most of the country's provinces. The opposition reports losing control of Abdanan and Malekshah, the death toll has reached 36 people, and more than 2,000 protesters have been detained.
Incident in the Gulf of Finland: Finland investigates cable damage and detention of Fitburg
Finnish authorities are investigating the damage to the submarine telecommunications cable between Finland and Estonia. The Fitburg was detained with the use of special forces and helicopters, and two crew members were arrested.
Trump warns Republicans against election defeat due to impeachment risk
Donald Trump has called on the Republican Party to win the November 2026 midterm congressional elections, saying that a defeat could pave the way for another impeachment attempt.
Russia's oil exports plummet, Kremlin's revenues at lowest since invasion of Ukraine
Russian oil exports fell sharply at the end of 2025, and prices for key grades plummeted to their lowest levels since February 2022. The combination of sanctions, infrastructure strikes, and logistical problems is taking a heavy toll on Russia's military budget.
US attempts to seize Venezuela-linked tanker after two-week chase
The United States is conducting an operation to seize an oil tanker linked to Venezuela, which has been chased in the Atlantic for more than two weeks. The incident could exacerbate relations with Russia.
Danish PM: possible US invasion of Greenland could spell end of NATO
Denmark has warned that a US military attack on Greenland, part of the Kingdom of Denmark and a NATO member, could undermine the very foundation of the North Atlantic Alliance. These statements come amid Washington's rhetoric of control over the island.
Russia sends submarine to escort tanker off Venezuela amid US actions
Russia deployed a submarine and warships to escort a tanker that the US was trying to detain off Venezuela. The incident exacerbates tensions between Washington and Moscow amid the fight against the shadowy oil fleet.
Coordination centre for Ukraine's allies to be set up in Paris with US participation
The leaders of the Coalition of the Willing, Ukraine and the United States agreed to establish a coordination centre in Paris to manage security guarantees, monitor the ceasefire and support the Ukrainian armed forces after the end of hostilities.
Putin orders sharp increase in tax revenues in 2026 amid stagnant Russian economy
The Kremlin is demanding a significant increase in tax collection in 2026 due to almost zero economic growth and a budget deficit. The government is already raising VAT and increasing pressure on businesses and citizens.
European countries outline contribution to peacekeeping efforts for Ukraine after the war
Belgium and Sweden have declared their readiness to contribute to security guarantees for Ukraine after the end of hostilities, while the Czech Republic has ruled out sending its military. The countries' positions came after the Coalition of the Willing summit in Paris.
After the Paris summit, Fidan says peace is closer in Ukraine and Turkey is ready to take responsibility in the Black Sea
After the meeting of the Coalition of the Willing in Paris, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said that after four years of war, the parties had come closer to a sustainable peace. He also reported discussions on ceasefire monitoring, deterring Russia, and possible military steps in the event of a ceasefire violation.
Canada announces expansion of joint arms production with Ukraine and does not reject presence of its military
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said in Paris that Ottawa will increase joint arms production with Ukraine through joint ventures. Canada is also ready to increase logistical, intelligence and cyber support and expand its training mission.