Politics
Putin has begun a 'purge' of Shoigu’s inner circle and is preparing to promote a ‘failed’ general – ISW
The Russian dictator is carrying out a 'purge' of supporters of Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu. He may replace the head of the State Duma’s Defence Committee with General Alexander Lapin, who is known for his failures in the war.
Ukraine has denied Russia the opportunity to profit from the global energy crisis — ISW
By striking at Russia’s oil infrastructure, Ukraine has deprived Moscow of the opportunity to capitalise on the rise in global oil prices. The Russian economy is under pressure from a number of factors, some of which are the result of the Kremlin’s own misguided policies.
The US has extended the easing of sanctions on Russian oil for another month
The Donald Trump administration has extended the sanctions exemption allowing the sale of Russian oil already loaded onto tankers for a further month. Officials in Washington have explained the decision as being necessary to stabilise the global oil market against the backdrop of the war with Iran and shipping problems in the Strait of Hormuz.
The US has terminated a joint defence programme with Canada that had been in place for over 80 years
The United States is officially withdrawing from the Permanent Joint Defence Council with Canada. Washington has accused its neighbour of failing to meet its military commitments.
Xi Jinping told Donald Trump that Vladimir Putin might come to regret invading Ukraine
During talks in Beijing, Xi Jinping told Donald Trump that Vladimir Putin might eventually come to regret the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The conversation also touched on the International Criminal Court and Russia’s war against Ukraine.
Lavrov has stated that Russia will not return to Eurovision due to ‘satanism’
Russia will not return to Eurovision due to the presence of ‘satanism’ at this international song contest. Earlier, the head of Eurovision stated in an interview that, in theory, Russia could be readmitted to the contest.
Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has warned of the risk of war over Taiwan
The President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has stated that, due to its geographical proximity, his country will inevitably be drawn into any potential military conflict involving Taiwan. Nearly 200,000 Filipino citizens currently live and work in Taiwan, and their safety could be at risk in the event of hostilities.
Competition for the post of ARMA head blocked: changes to the law are required to appoint a new head (document)
The competition to appoint the head of ARMA has been suspended due to legislative conflicts.
Lithuania is preparing for a possible Russian attack and is calling on Europe to break its dependencies
Lithuania regards the threat from Russia as a reality and believes that Europe must move towards a new security model. Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys has stated that EU countries must strengthen their defences, develop strategic thinking and reduce their dependence on Russia.
Politico has named three potential candidates to lead the EU’s peace talks with Russia
Discussions are ongoing within the European Union regarding the appointment of an EU negotiator to engage with Russia with a view to achieving a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
Merkel has called on Europe to make greater use of diplomacy in its relations with Russia
Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel has stated that Europe is not making sufficient use of diplomatic channels in the conflict with Russia over the war in Ukraine. She also commented on the role of mediators in negotiations with the Kremlin.
Cuba has acquired combat drones and is considering using them against the US
US officials have stated that Cuba has received more than 300 military drones and is discussing the possibility of using them against US targets, including the Guantanamo Bay base.
