He also claimed that some of these weapons had surfaced in conflict zones across Africa and the Middle East . The meeting focused on rising extremist threats and international co-operation, according to the CIS Anti-Terrorism Centre.

“Every day we woke up wanting to come back, and all the other guys there thought the same,” he said. “We prayed constantly. We all have crosses and icons. Without faith, we wouldn’t have returned or survived.”

Earlier, Russia’s Defence Ministry announced that Moscow and Kyiv had carried out a “185-for-185” prisoner exchange with mediation from the United Arab Emirates.

“On 5 June, 185 Russian servicemen were returned from territory controlled by the Kiev regime. In exchange, 185 prisoners of war from the Ukrainian Armed Forces were handed over,” the ministry said in a statement.

The ministry added that the released Russian servicemen were initially transferred to Belarus, where they received medical and psychological assistance before returning home.

According to Russian authorities, the soldiers will now undergo further treatment and rehabilitation at specialised medical facilities in Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also confirmed the exchange, saying 185 Ukrainian servicemen and one civilian had been returned from Russian captivity. He thanked those involved in facilitating the swap, including international mediators.

The United Arab Emirates has played a recurring role in brokering prisoner exchanges between Russia and Ukraine,

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said 185 military personnel and one civilian had been returned in the exchange. “Another 185 Ukrainian defenders are returning home from Russian captivity today. One civilian is also returning alongside the defenders,” Zelensky said in a statement.

He noted that some of the released prisoners had been held by Russia since 2022. “I thank everyone who makes this possible: the team working on prisoner exchanges and our partners,” he added.

Russia’s Defence Ministry confirmed the swap, saying the returned Russian servicemen were in Belarus, where they were receiving medical and psychological support.

“After receiving the necessary psychological and medical assistance, the Russian servicemen will be transported to the Russian Federation for further treatment and rehabilitation,” the ministry said.

The United Arab Emirates helped facilitate the exchange through humanitarian mediation efforts, according to Russian authorities.

Prisoner swaps have remained one of the few areas of cooperation between Kyiv and Moscow since Russia launched its full-scale military offensive against Ukraine in February 2022.

Among the critics was Republican Representative Randy Fine, who said the measure appeared to have been "copied and pasted" from previous sanctions legislation targeting Iran and would do little to help Ukraine.

"This bill is not about helping Ukraine. This is not about standing up to Vladimir Putin. This is about engaging in Trump derangement syndrome," Fine said during debate on the House floor.

“There are some issues we have always taken a clear position on. Positions not all UN member states share. There’s our rock-solid support for Ukraine. It is no secret that Russia does not want such a voice at the table in the Security Council that campaigned against us,” he said.

Germany lost out to Austria and Portugal, which won the two available seats for the Western European and Others Group. Wadephul described the result as a setback and pointed to several factors behind the outcome.

“Obviously, the result is a real disappointment. It’s a bitter defeat... Germany entered late, meaning we were at a disadvantage from the start,” he said.

He also linked the result to Germany’s “historical responsibility” toward Israel amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East .

Germany received 104 votes, while Portugal secured 134 and Austria 131. Kyrgyzstan, Trinidad and Tobago, and Zimbabwe were also elected to the council.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz congratulated Portugal and Austria following the vote, saying Germany “remains a reliable pillar of multilateralism” despite the loss.

The UN Security Council consists of five permanent members — China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States — and 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.

“There are still some technical and procedural steps to be completed on the Ukrainian side. And for us, what remains to be done is to verify if the conditions linked to the first disbursement under the macrofinancial assistance programme for Ukraine are met or not met,” Lammert admitted.

The loan agreement followed a diplomatic breakthrough in late April, when Slovakia and Hungary eased opposition to key EU measures supporting Ukraine. Hungary had previously blocked the package under former Prime Minister Viktor Orban amid disagreements linked to the Druzhba pipeline.

“Once again, I want to express the most sincere condolences to the families, who suffered such an unfulfillable loss. They lost the most precious thing that every family has, every person has. They lost their children and grandchildren,” Putin said.

“I repeat, we need to do everything to support people .”

Putin said he had requested updates from Russia’s top law enforcement officials regarding the investigation into the attack.

“I have invited both the Prosecutor General and the Chairman of the Investigation Committee. I would like to ask you to give your assessment of what has happened and report on how the investigation of these criminals is going. All of them must receive the deserved punishment, and it will be inevitable,” he added.

According to the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations, a drone struck a student dormitory and educational buildings at Starobelsk College of Luhansk State Pedagogical University on May 22. Russian authorities reported that 21 people were killed and 42 others were injured. Most of those killed were reportedly minors aged between 14 and 18.

Starobelsk is located in the Russian-controlled part of Ukraine’s Luhansk region.

Following the incident, Russia launched retaliatory strikes on Kyiv. Ukrainian authorities reported that two people were killed and 56 others were injured in the attacks, according to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko.

Ukraine’s Air Force said it intercepted 549 Russian drones and 55 missiles launched during the operation.

The incident has further escalated tensions, with Russia denouncing the strike as terrorism and launching retaliatory attacks on Ukrainian military infrastructure. Meanwhile, conflicting claims persist over the intended target of the original strike. Baqaei also addressed broader geopolitical tensions, criticising US actions and noting ongoing but inconclusive diplomatic exchanges between Tehran and Washington.

According to Moscow, units from the Northern Group of Forces are continuing offensive operations aimed at creating what it described as a “ security buffer zone” in the Sumy and Kharkov regions.

“The enemy attempted to redeploy reserves from elite assault units in order to hold their positions, but these efforts were unsuccessful,” the ministry said in a statement. “The militants suffered losses and were forced to withdraw.”

Ukraine had not commented on the Russian claims at the time of publication.

However, Ukraine’s General Staff reported that air strikes had been recorded in several areas of the Sumy region, including near Tolstodubovo, over the previous 24 hours.

Russia launched its full-scale military offensive against Ukraine in February 2022 following its recognition of the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Lugansk People ’s Republics.

Kyiv condemned the move as an invasion, while Western countries imposed sweeping sanctions on Moscow and increased military support for Ukraine.

“During the operational search, it was established that the individual proactively established and maintained contact with a representative of Ukrainian intelligence via Telegram,” the agency stated.

The FSB alleged that from 2025, the suspect collected and shared information about facilities linked to the Russian Ministry of Defence, transport infrastructure , military-industrial and fuel-energy sites in the region.

“From 2025 onwards, he collected and transmitted information to the enemy regarding facilities of the Russian Ministry of Defence, transport infrastructure, military -industrial and fuel-energy complexes in the region, as well as military personnel involved in a special military operation (Ukraine conflict),” the agency added.

Russian authorities said the suspect is expected to face charges of high treason.

"Today, everyone in the world who does not stay silent, who helps Ukraine, is a defender of life," Zelensky continued. “Decisions are needed from the United States of America, from Europe, and from others. So that this 'old oreshnik' in Moscow utters the word 'peace’."

Two people lost their lives, and 56 sustained wounds in Kyiv due to the strike, according to the mayor, Vitali Klitschko.

549 of the launched Russian drones and 55 missiles were reportedly intercepted by the Ukrainian air force.

The attack follows the Starobelsk tragedy in the Lugansk People's Republic (LPR), where 21 people were killed, and 42 others were injured in a Ukrainian drone attack on a college. Most of the killed were minors between 14 and 18 years old.

The Russian Investigative Committee opened a criminal case on 'terrorism' under Part 3, Article 205 of the Russian Criminal Code.

Ukraine's General Staff claimed that the strikes targeted several military facilities, including 'the headquarters of the 'Rubicon', the Centre for Advanced Unmanned Technologies in Starobelsk'.

At the UN Security Council emergency meeting on Friday, Russia's permanent representative Vassily Nebenzia expressed outrage at what he described as a 'blatant mockery of child victims'.

He also criticised Western responses, which denied the attack despite evidence from Moscow and confirmation from Kyiv. The Russian Foreign Ministry has invited foreign journalists to inspect the scene of the tragedy.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said more than 50 journalists from 19 countries joined the trip to inspect the site of the attack.  

According to Zakharova, the visiting media representatives came from Austria, Brazil, Britain, Hungary, Venezuela, Germany, Greece, Spain, Italy, Qatar, China, Cuba, Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates, Pakistan, the United States , Turkey, Finland and France.

She also claimed that the BBC declined the invitation, CNN cited staff holidays, and Japanese journalists were reportedly prevented from covering the incident.

Russia’s Emergency Situations Ministry said at least 21 people were killed and 42 were injured in the strike, while rescue operations at the site have now concluded.  

Leonid Pasechnik, the Russian-installed head of the LPR, said Ukrainian forces targeted a college building and student dormitory in Starobelsk on Friday. Russian officials said dozens of students were inside the building when the attack occurred.

Russian President Vladimir Putin described the strike as a “terrorist act” and said the attack appeared deliberate. 

Russia’s Investigative Committee opened a criminal case under terrorism charges following the incident.

Ukraine’s General Staff said the strikes targeted military-related infrastructure , including what it described as the headquarters of the “Rubicon” Centre for Advanced Unmanned Technologies in Starobelsk.

The operation was overseen by Robert Brovdi, known by the call sign “Madyar,” commander of Ukraine’s drone forces.

“The priority remains the constant development of the use of long-range strike capabilities against a wide range of military targets dispersed over the vast territory of the aggressor country,” Brovdi told AFP.

According to Brovdi, fuel and energy facilities across southern Russia, the Urals and Siberia remain key targets, including oil terminals, refineries and gas processing complexes.

He said the facilities help finance Russia’s military operations in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the attacks as a “fully justified” response to ongoing Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure .

Ukraine has increasingly relied on long-range drone attacks to strike deep inside Russian territory, targeting sites Kyiv says are linked to Moscow’s military-industrial complex. Russia stated on Sunday that Kyiv bombed its territory with 600 drones, in attacks that caused four deaths.

Argentina’s outstanding IMF obligations are expected to reach $56.8 billion , representing roughly 38% of total IMF lending. The South American country remains heavily reliant on IMF support following years of economic turbulence marked by triple-digit inflation, weakening foreign reserves and repeated debt restructuring efforts.

Ukraine ranks as the IMF’s second-largest borrower, with projected debt exposure of $14.1 billion, or 9.5% of total lending, reflecting continued international financial support amid the ongoing economic fallout from Russia’s invasion.

Pakistan and Egypt follow closely behind, with IMF obligations projected at $9.9 billion and $9.4 billion, respectively. Both countries have faced mounting balance-of-payments pressures, rising import costs and persistent currency depreciation in recent years.

The IMF has repeatedly warned that higher global interest rates and slowing economic growth are intensifying debt vulnerabilities across low and middle-income economies. Countries already facing fiscal stress have been particularly exposed to rising borrowing costs and declining investor confidence.

Ecuador owes $7.2 billion to the IMF in 2026, while Côte d’Ivoire’s obligations stand at $4.9 billion, underscoring growing reliance on multilateral financing across parts of Africa and Latin America.

Kenya, Bangladesh and Ghana are each projected to account for approximately 2.6% of total IMF lending, with outstanding obligations of around $3.9 billion each. Angola rounds out the list at $3.4 billion.

Economists say the figures illustrate how the IMF has increasingly become a lender of last resort for countries struggling with external debt burdens, currency crises and fiscal imbalances.

Argentina’s position at the top of the list also reflects the scale of the IMF’s largest-ever country programme. In 2018, the Fund approved a record $57 billion financing package for the country, later restructured amid worsening economic conditions .

For Ukraine, IMF support has become closely tied to broader international recovery and reconstruction efforts, while countries such as Pakistan and Ghana have relied on IMF programmes to unlock additional financing from other multilateral lenders and private investors.

The footage also included scenes of officers searching flats and leading suspects away in handcuffs.

One detainee appeared in the video admitting to online activity linked to pro-Ukrainian groups.

“I used Telegram to post comments in pro-Ukrainian communities that justified terrorist organisations and their activities,” the suspect said.

“I just had a good conversation with the Prime Minister of Slovakia. Officially, we appreciate that Slovakia has taken steps to unblock the European support package for Ukraine and the sanctions package against Russia ,” Zelensky said.

The Ukrainian leader said both sides agreed on the need to maintain strong bilateral relations despite recent differences. According to Ukraine’s presidential office, Zelensky and Fico also discussed a possible in-person meeting, with their teams expected to work on scheduling details.

Zelensky said Slovakia had reaffirmed its support for Ukraine’s bid to join the European Union. Ukraine’s presidential office said Fico told Zelensky that Slovakia supports Ukraine’s EU membership and is ready to share its own experience of accession.

The comments follow weeks of tensions over EU support for Ukraine, including a €90 billion package and additional sanctions against Moscow. The funding had been held up amid objections from Hungary and Slovakia linked to disputes over Russian oil flows through the Druzhba pipeline, Viory reports.

Ukraine said the pipeline had been damaged by a Russian strike and later repaired it after requests from the European Union. Zelensky said on April 21 that Kyiv had completed “all necessary steps” on its side and expected the EU to deliver on its commitments.

Hungary, under outgoing Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, had repeatedly blocked or delayed EU measures in support of Ukraine. Orbán’s Fidesz party lost Hungary’s April 12 election to Péter Magyar’s Tisza party, raising expectations in Kyiv and Brussels that Budapest’s stance on Ukraine could shift.

Orbán had accused Ukraine and the EU of interfering in Hungary’s election campaign, allegations that his opponents denied. The dispute over Ukraine aid, sanctions and energy transit had become a central issue in Hungary’s election campaign and in EU negotiations on support for Kyiv.

“The EU asked Ukraine to repair the Druzhba oil pipeline, which Russia had destroyed. We have repaired it. We hope the EU will also deliver on the agreed commitments,” he said.

Zelensky also expressed concern over what he described as a lack of progress on additional EU sanctions against Russia, warning that delays risk weakening international pressure on Moscow.

With 98.89% of the vote counted, TISZA won 138 seats, Fidesz-KDNP secured 55 seats, and Mi Hazánk obtained 6 seats.

The outcome marks a major political shift in Hungary, where Orbán had been one of Europe’s most controversial leaders. He was widely seen as the European Union’s most autocratic leader and maintained close ties with U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. His removal is expected to ease tensions within the EU, where officials have long accused him of undermining democratic systems and taking advantage of institutional weaknesses.

Orbán also faced criticism over his stance on Ukraine. He was accused of supporting actions that helped block €90 billion in European support to Ukraine, raising concerns among European leaders about Hungary’s role in the bloc.

Despite endorsements from Trump and campaign support that included visits from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance, the vote appeared to be driven mainly by domestic issues.

Voters were reported to be concerned about Hungary’s economic challenges, as well as allegations of corruption and cronyism linked to Orbán’s administration. The scale of the defeat indicated widespread dissatisfaction, as TISZA was projected to dominate both the national party-list vote and many individual constituencies.

In his speech to supporters, Magyar promised to return Hungary to the main fold of European politics , pledging a pro-European Union and pro-NATO direction for the country.

“My fellow citizens, Hungary will once again be a strong ally in the European Union and NATO. Hungary will once again be a strong ally representing Hungarian interests, because our country's place for a thousand years in Europe was, is, and will be. We will rebuild and strengthen, we will place it on new foundations and expand the cooperation of the Visegrad Four wherever possible,” he said.

The result sparked celebrations in Budapest, where tens of thousands of people took to the streets.

With a projected majority above the threshold required to govern alone, Magyar is expected to form the next government , ending Orbán’s long hold on power and signalling a shift in Hungary’s position within Europe.

That challenger is Péter Magyar, a former Fidesz insider who now leads the Tisza (Respect and Freedom) Party. What looks like a domestic political contest is also being watched closely far beyond Hungary, with implications for the EU, the US, Russia, and Ukraine.

Orbán’s campaign has focused heavily on the idea of “war or peace.” He has positioned himself as Hungary’s protector, warning that “progressive forces” in the West and Ukraine are trying to pull the country into conflict.

Across Budapest, that message is hard to miss. Posters show Volodymyr Zelensky and Ursula von der Leyen as threatening figures, often described as part of a “pro-war lobby.” Orbán has also claimed—without evidence—that Ukraine could attack Hungary. His allies have gone further, branding Magyar as an “agent of Brussels.”

Magyar, 45, is not a typical opposition figure . He comes from Orbán’s inner circle and broke away after a corruption and pardon scandal. Since then, his Tisza Party has gained momentum.

His focus is different. He talks about the economy, corruption, and the rule of law, what he calls everyday issues. He has also promised to unlock between €18 billion and €22.5 billion in frozen EU funds by restoring Hungary’s alignment with European standards.

Unlike past challengers, Magyar connects with voters in rural areas through retail politics, and his right-leaning background makes him harder to dismiss.

The outcome matters on several levels. At home, Hungary is ranked as the most corrupt country in the EU, with most of its media and judiciary under state control. A Magyar win would aim to reverse that and dismantle what critics call a “soft autocracy.”

In Europe, Orbán has built a reputation as the EU’s “disruptor-in-chief,” often blocking aid to Ukraine and sanctions on Russia. Some EU leaders are now even considering suspending Hungary’s voting rights.

There are also wider geopolitical stakes. Hungary has been accused of acting as Moscow’s “mole” inside the EU, with leaked calls suggesting coordination with Russian diplomats. If Orbán loses, Russia could lose a key ally, and Ukraine could find stronger support.

In the US, Orbán has backing from Donald Trump and has hosted Vice President JD Vance, but some US Senators are pushing sanctions over Hungary’s ties to Russian energy.

Even with polls putting Tisza ahead by 10 to 12 points, victory is not certain. Orbán has reshaped the system, rewriting the constitution and gerrymandering districts to favour Fidesz.

Experts say Magyar may need at least a six-point lead just to win a majority. The campaign has also been hit by claims of Russian-backed disinformation, known as “Gamechanger,” aimed at damaging the opposition and even suggesting staged assassination plots.

“Ukrainians have clear objectives. The goal of the Ukrainians is to oust Russian gas from Europe and exclude Russian oil entirely. To this end, they have taken political steps, and even legal actions have been initiated, as we must not forget that the first such violent event related to energy supply was the explosion of the Nord Stream gas pipeline,” he said.

He further alleged a pattern of actions targeting energy infrastructure.

“Ukrainians blew up the Nord Stream pipeline, and then they closed the major natural gas pipeline through their territory,” Szijjarto continued. “In recent weeks, they attacked several times with dozens of drones the TurkStream pipeline on Russian territory. And now, it aligns with this that yesterday the Serbian authorities prevented a terrorist attack in which they intended to blow up the Serbian section of the TurkStream pipeline.”

The Nord Stream pipeline explosions in 2022 were blamed on Ukraine, with German investigators identifying Ukrainian divers involved. The United States was also implicated in some media reports, while both Washington and Kyiv denied involvement.

Szijjarto stated that TurkStream plays a key role in Hungary’s energy supply, accounting for about 56% of its daily gas needs. He announced plans to deploy military protection along the 250-kilometre pipeline.

He added that the Pope’s call for “the laying down of arms and the renunciation of violence” had “resonated profoundly,” describing it as consistent with the teachings of major world religions.

“Whether we look to Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism or any of the world's great spiritual traditions, the message is fundamentally the same: love, compassion, tolerance, and self-discipline,” the Dalai Lama said. “Violence finds no true home in any of these teachings.”

The statement comes as conflicts in the Middle East and between Russia and Ukraine continue, with limited signs of near-term diplomatic resolution.

“History has shown us time and again that violence only begets more violence and is never a lasting foundation for peace,” he said.

The Dalai Lama called for efforts to resolve conflicts through non-violent means, saying: “An enduring resolution to conflict, including the ones we see in the Middle East or between Russia and Ukraine, must be rooted in dialogue, diplomacy and mutual respect.”

He added that such efforts should be “approached with the understanding that, at the deepest level, we are all brothers and sisters.”

Pope Leo XIV — the first American pontiff — said in his Palm Sunday homily at St. Peter’s Square that “Jesus does not listen to prayers of those who wage war, adding that the Lord “always rejects violence.”

In his message, the Dalai Lama said a prayer for an end to ongoing conflicts : 

“I urge for and pray that the violence and conflicts may soon come to an end.”

Hungary has vetoed the package amid a dispute over the Druzhba pipeline, which carries Russian crude to parts of Central Europe. Budapest says Ukraine deliberately cut supplies, while Kyiv says oil flows stopped after a Russian attack damaged pipeline infrastructure in late January, and repairs are underway. Zelensky said the Soviet-era pipeline could be operational again “within a month and a half.”

Orban, who faces Hungary’s parliamentary election on April 12, has accused Ukraine of trying to influence the campaign and has urged the European Commission to pressure Kyiv to restart deliveries.

In a letter shared publicly this week, Orban claimed there was “no technical or operational reason” the pipeline could not return to normal immediately.

The standoff comes as Ukraine continues to fight Russia n assaults along the front line. An analysis by Finland-based open-source group Black Bird Group found Russia lost more territory than it gained in February for the first time since 2023.

Now recognised internationally as a symbol of Ukrainian resistance and solidarity, the slogan appears in many linguistic forms across the continent, including “Glory to Ukraine” in English, “Gloire à l’Ukraine” in French, “Gloria all’Ucraina” in Italian, and “Sláva Ukrajině” in Czech.

“Slava Ukraini” is a Ukrainian national salute meaning “Glory to Ukraine.” It is typically answered with the response “Heroyam Slava,” meaning “Glory to the heroes.”

According to the Britannica, the phrase has been used in Ukrainian nationalist movements since the early 20th century and gained wider popularity during Ukraine’s struggle for independence in the early 1900s.

In modern times, it became a widely recognised national slogan following Ukraine’s 2014 Revolution of Dignity, when protesters used it during demonstrations supporting democratic reforms and closer ties with Europe.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, the phrase has spread globally as a symbol of solidarity with Ukrainians.

The above map illustrates how countries across Europe have adapted the phrase into their own languages.

Examples include:

In Nordic countries, the phrase appears as “Ære til Ukraina” in Norwegian and “Kunnia Ukrainalle” in Finnish.

The widespread translations reflect the strong political and cultural support many European countries have expressed for Ukraine since the war began.

The phrase has appeared at protests, political speeches, sporting events and social media campaigns across Europe.

Several international leaders have publicly used the slogan when expressing support for Ukraine. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has ended speeches with “Slava Ukraini,” including remarks at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Berlin in 2024 , where she concluded by saying: “Slava Ukraini. And long live Europe.”

Other political figures who have used the phrase include former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, and former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who have referenced the slogan in speeches or public statements supporting Ukraine during the war.

The phrase has also become widely used by public figures beyond politics. Ukrainian athletes such as Oleksandr Usyk, Andriy Shevchenko, and Elina Svitolina frequently repeat the slogan in interviews and public appearances, while demonstrations around the world have adopted it as a chant of solidarity with Ukraine.

The United States and the European Union have, however, provided billions of dollars in military and economic aid, including advanced air defence systems and artillery. Aid debates in Western capitals continue to shape Kyiv’s battlefield capacity.

Russia, meanwhile, faces sweeping economic sanctions targeting its banking, energy and defence sectors. While sanctions have strained parts of the economy, Moscow has redirected trade and increased domestic arms production.

Despite a call for a ceasefire, Ukraine insists on full territorial restoration and security guarantees, while Russia maintains claims over annexed regions. The United Nations continues to call for a negotiated settlement, but no ceasefire agreement has been reached.

In all of these, the humanitarian toll remains severe, with millions displaced and infrastructure heavily damaged. The conflict continues to affect global food and energy markets .

Watch the full video above as voices from the Global South dish out what's next for both parties to save themselves and avert the deadly cost.

In the United Kingdom, the regular army has fallen from 110,000 personnel in 2010 to 73,000 in 2024. British Defence Minister Al Khan has warned that the army, at its current size, could be depleted within six months to a year in a major conflict .

Russia, despite facing similar demographic pressures, has intensified overseas recruitment. 

According to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, about 1,400 African nationals are fighting alongside Russian forces. While some joined for ideological reasons, many were reportedly drawn by higher pay amid limited job prospects at home.

Africa’s labor force is projected to expand by 541 million over the next 25 years, even as the European Union ’s workforce is expected to shrink by 24 million. 

The policy was introduced after private clinics began offering cryopreservation services to troops in 2022, following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Lawmakers later stepped in to regulate the process and provide state funding.

At the state-run Centre for Reproductive Medicine in Kyiv, officials say a small number of troops have already enrolled, with more expected as awareness grows.

Maxim, a 35-year-old member of Ukraine’s National Guard stationed near the eastern frontline, recently froze a sperm sample during leave in Kyiv. He said he wants more servicemen to consider fertility preservation.

“Our men are dying. The Ukrainian gene pool is dying. This is about the survival of our nation,” he said in a phone interview .

Doctors say the programme also responds to broader demographic concerns. Ukraine faced falling birth rates even before the war, and losses among young men in combat, along with millions of refugees leaving the country, have deepened worries about population decline.

The policy initially drew criticism after early rules required samples to be destroyed if a donor died. The law has since been amended to allow partners to use preserved material for up to three years after death, provided consent was given.

For many soldiers, the option offers reassurance amid constant danger on the frontline. Officials say the programme is meant to support military families while addressing the long-term human cost of a war that has reshaped Ukrainian society .

The initiative, first linked to post-ceasefire governance discussions around Gaza, has expanded into a broader proposal for a new international body aimed at conflict resolution and reconstruction.

Trump’s team describes it as a platform to promote stability and long-term peace. Critics argue it risks bypassing existing multilateral institutions, particularly the United Nations .

Countries invited and early acceptances

According to officials familiar with the process, invitations have been sent to dozens of governments across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas.

A limited number of countries have confirmed acceptance. Argentina’s president, Javier Milei, publicly welcomed the invitation, describing it as an opportunity for closer diplomatic cooperation. Hungary has also confirmed participation , with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán signalling support for Trump’s approach to peace negotiations. Vietnam has likewise accepted, with its leadership confirming involvement through diplomatic channels.

Several other countries, including India, Australia, Pakistan, Egypt , Turkey, Jordan, Greece, Cyprus, Canada, and Albania, have acknowledged receiving invitations but have not formally committed.

Rejections and reluctance from major powers

Some governments have already drawn clear lines. France has indicated it does not intend to join at this stage, citing concerns about the board’s purpose and structure. Brazil has also taken a cautious stance, with officials questioning whether the initiative complements or competes with existing international frameworks.

Canada’s position has been more nuanced. While Ottawa has not ruled out participation, officials have pushed back on reports that membership could involve large financial contributions, stressing that any involvement would need to align with Canada’s diplomatic priorities.

Other major powers, including the United Kingdom and Germany, are reported to be in internal discussions but have yet to make public commitments.

The proposal has generated additional controversy following reports that Russia’s President Vladimir Putin received an invitation . The Kremlin confirmed it was reviewing the offer, a move that has unsettled European diplomats, given Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.

According to briefings from U.S. officials and reporting by international media, the Board of Peace is intended to:

Some reports suggest membership could involve fixed-term participation or long-term seats tied to significant financial contributions, a feature that has drawn criticism from several governments.

“I’m here today to tell you where NATO stands, and what we must do to stop a war before it starts,” he said. “And to do that, we need to be crystal clear about the threat. We are Russia’s next target, and we are already in harm’s way.”

Rutte said he has repeatedly warned since taking office last year that the conflict in Ukraine could extend to NATO territory if member states fail to act decisively. “I fear that too many are quietly complacent, too many don’t feel the urgency, and too many believe that time is on our side. It is not. The time for action is now,” he added.

Moscow has consistently rejected accusations that it intends to attack NATO members, insisting the conflict remains limited to Ukraine. Russian officials have instead accused the alliance of escalating hostilities by supplying weapons to Kyiv and entertaining discussions about deploying troops.

Russian intelligence recently claimed that France was preparing to send up to 2,000 soldiers to Ukraine, a claim Paris denies. Meanwhile, the UK confirmed earlier this week that a British soldier had been killed while observing a weapons test in Ukraine. However, officials stressed the incident occurred far from active fighting.

Rutte’s remarks come amid rising tension between Russia and Western governments, as NATO reassesses its defence posture ahead of next year’s key strategic planning meetings.

New data from World’s Top Exports shows that Spain and Mexico dominate the global pumpkin market in 2024, together accounting for more than 64% of worldwide pumpkin exports.

With international demand rising for year-round cooking, health foods, and processed pumpkin products, the industry has become more important to farmers and exporters across Europe, North America, Africa, and Oceania.

According to the 2024 export rankings, Spain leads the world with 32.8% of global pumpkin exports, valued at about $574 million. Mexico follows closely with 32%, earning $559 million.

The large market share held by both countries reflects their strong agricultural infrastructure, export-oriented farming, and access to major global markets.

The rest of the top exporters include:

How global events are shaping the pumpkin market

Climate change is shifting growing seasons

Farmers across Europe and North America are adjusting planting cycles due to unpredictable rainfall, heat waves, and changing soil conditions. Some regions in Spain and Mexico have benefited from longer warm seasons, allowing for stronger yields.

Food security continues to be a global priority

With conflicts disrupting trade routes , such as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, countries are looking toward more stable and diverse agricultural suppliers. Pumpkins, being versatile and widely cultivated, fit into this wider push to secure reliable food imports.

Rising global celebrations and food trends

Pumpkin has become more than a seasonal item . From soups and baked goods to the globally popular “pumpkin spice” trend, food producers are buying more pumpkin for processing and export. This helps keep demand strong throughout the year.

The latest data from World’s Top Exports shows a clear picture of which nations dominate this highly specialised industry, and why demand continues to grow.

According to the 2024 rankings, Germany, France, and the United States remain the world’s top helicopter exporters, together controlling nearly 49% of global export value. The data includes both large military helicopters and smaller civilian models.

Top 10 helicopter exporting countries in 2024

These figures highlight how concentrated the global helicopter market is, with European and North American manufacturers leading in engineering, technology, and international partnerships.

According to data from World ’s Top Exports, demand for both military and civilian helicopters has been steadily increasing as countries rethink how they respond to conflict, disasters, and modernisation needs.

One major driver is the surge in defence spending across Europe, Asia, and Africa. With geopolitical tensions, from the Russia–Ukraine war to instability in the Sahel, many nations are strengthening their aviation capabilities as helicopters remain essential assets for transport, surveillance, emergency missions, and rapid deployment.

At the same time, climate-related disasters are pushing governments to invest in more versatile aircraft. Helicopters play critical roles in wildfire response, flood rescues, medical evacuations, and humanitarian operations. As extreme weather events become more frequent, countries are building air-response fleets that can react quickly and reach areas inaccessible by road.

Modernisation is another key factor. Many nations are replacing ageing, Cold-War-era aircraft with newer models that offer better safety, efficiency, and lower maintenance costs. This shift has strongly benefited leading exporters such as Germany, France, and Canada, whose aviation industries are known for reliability and long-term value.

Among the 17 men reportedly recruited, eight were family members. Authorities say the men, aged between 20 and 39, left South Africa under false pretences, believing they would get “bodyguard training” or other employment . In reality, distress calls received by South African authorities indicate they found themselves on the frontlines.

South Africa’s elite crime-fighting unit, The Hawks, has opened a criminal investigation into the allegations. The charges under consideration include human trafficking, fraud, and violations of the foreign-military-assistance law.

Her half-sister formally filed the complaint, saying she felt a “moral obligation” to act, especially after learning some of the men were close relatives.

On November 28, 2025, MK Party, led by Jacob Zuma, announced that Zuma-Sambudla had stepped down from her parliamentary seat, effective immediately. Party officials described the resignation as voluntary and not an admission of guilt. The party also pledged to support the families of the affected men and assist in efforts to repatriate them safely.

If proven, the case marks one of the most serious mercenary-recruitment scandals involving foreign nationals and raises new concerns about the exploitation of vulnerable individuals.

According to the graphic, Russia reportedly fields around 1.32 million active‐service soldiers compared to Ukraine’s approximately 900,000.

Russia also claims roughly 8,163 aircraft and helicopters versus Ukraine’s 608; around 137,277 tanks and combat vehicles against Ukraine’s 20,034; some 16,678 artillery systems compared to Ukraine’s 1,552; and approximately 758 naval vessels and submarines versus 125 for Ukraine.

These numbers align broadly with independent assessments. For example, the Council on Foreign Relations notes that Russia retains a “sizable advantage” in both personnel and equipment, even though the war has reached a protracted stalemate.

Meanwhile, comparative data tables highlight the larger scale of Russia’s arsenal and reserve forces in a conventional fight.

Yet the war is proving that raw numbers alone don’t guarantee success. Ukrainian forces have shown resilience through strategic use of Western‐supplied systems, terrain advantages and asymmetric tactics.

A recent study by the Dupuy Institute indicates that although Russia may have brought approximately 450,000 troops into Ukraine, Ukraine has kept up with a ground strength of nearly 575,000 when factoring in its reserves.

On the global front, this imbalance and war of attrition carry significant implications: Europe is increasingly urged to step up its defence commitments as the U.S. gradually reassesses its role in Ukraine’s support.

The summit marked the continuation of a complicated diplomatic relationship that has spanned years and several countries.

The map of their meetings tells a story of evolving political theatre. Their first face-to-face encounter took place at the G20 Summit in Hamburg, Germany, in July 2017, followed by the APEC Summit in Da Nang, Vietnam, later that year.

They met again during the Helsinki Summit in Finland in June 2018 and at the WWI Armistice centenary in Paris that November. The G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan, in June 2019 rounded out the early chapter of their encounters, before geopolitical realities and Trump’s departure from office paused direct talks.

The Anchorage Summit reignited global attention. According to CBS News , discussions focused heavily on the ongoing war in Ukraine, sanctions, and global energy prices.

However, much like their previous meetings, the summit produced more symbolism than substance, with no significant breakthroughs on ceasefire agreements or troop withdrawals. Reuters described the talks as “cordial but inconclusive.”

Now, attention is turning toward Budapest, Hungary, as the potential venue for their next meeting. Following a phone call between Trump and Putin on October 16, both sides signalled openness to further negotiations in the Hungarian capital, a move widely supported by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.

In remarks quoted by AP News , Orbán said Hungary was proud to serve as neutral ground, calling his country “the only place in Europe” capable of hosting such high-stakes diplomacy.

For Ukraine, the timing couldn’t be more sensitive. Just days after Trump and Putin’s call, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Washington to push for advanced U.S. weapons and reaffirm support for Kyiv.

Still, expectations remain cautious. Analysts cited by AP News and The Kyiv Independent note that previous summits between the two leaders, often long on photo ops and short on policy outcomes, suggest the upcoming Budapest meeting may not deliver sweeping results either.

“Today, no one but ourselves can guarantee security. Only strong alliances, only strong partners, and only our own weapons,” Zelensky said. He called the reality “sick,” but insisted it was unavoidable.

The Ukrainian leader argued that international law was powerless without enforcement by states willing to act. He added that even those willing partners could not offer guarantees without military strength of their own. “There are no security guarantees except friends and weapons,” he said.

Zelensky acknowledged the contradiction between Ukraine’s traditionally peaceful outlook and its present need to invest heavily in defence. Ukrainians, he said, would have chosen another path if possible, but were left with no alternative in the face of Russian aggression.

The president also cast doubt on the ability of global institutions to address conflicts elsewhere. He pointed to Sudan, Somalia, Palestine and Syria as examples of peoples left waiting for international support while wars and sanctions continued to devastate them.

“For decades, just statements and statements,” Zelensky said, adding that Syria, despite years of upheaval, still had to appeal to the world for relief from sanctions.

Turning back to the Middle East , Zelensky cited the ongoing violence in Gaza as another example of the UN’s weakness. He said the conflict remained unresolved, with “no way out” offered by international mechanisms.

Zelensky stressed that Ukraine’s war showed the costs of those failings. He said people were still dying every week because Moscow refused a ceasefire and the international community lacked the means to compel one.

“Ukrainians are peaceful people, but they are people who want to live freely in their own independent country,” he said. “That’s why we invest in defence. For many nations, there is simply no other way left.”

The message was delivered on one of the world’s biggest diplomatic stages, where many world leaders expressed support for Ukraine and other territories facing unrest, such as Palestine and Syria.

In an interview on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, Trump said the war, now approaching its fourth year, had defied early predictions of a swift Russian victory. Trump said Ukraine had “a lot of courage, a lot of guts” and deserved credit for stopping what he described as a “very large army.”

The comments mark a notable departure from Trump’s earlier criticism of Kyiv's ability to withstand Russia's military power. Just in February, he criticised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for doing a "terrible job" in navigating the invasion.

Asked whether NATO countries should shoot down Russian aircraft if they enter their airspace, Trump replied, “Yes I do.” He later added that any U.S. response would depend on circumstances, but insisted the alliance had grown stronger under his leadership.

Trump also pointed to rising defence spending among NATO members, claiming that contributions had risen from 2% to 5% of output. He said the shift represented “great unity” and stressed that many countries were now buying weapons directly from the United States.

He drew a contrast with President Joe Biden, accusing the previous administration of giving Ukraine aid “without getting much in return.” By contrast, he said, NATO members are now paying the United States for weapons, pumping “trillions of dollars” into the alliance’s collective security.

Russia hurting

On the flipside, Trump said Moscow was suffering from the prolonged conflict, which has brought sanctions and isolation.

“The Russian economy is terrible right now,” he said. “As you know, it’s crashing.”

Washington itself had imposed a great deal of sanctions against countries buying oil from Russia, the sales of which Trump said were being used to fund the war in Ukraine.

Trump was also asked about Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s continued purchases of Russian oil. He described Orban as “a friend” and said he had not spoken to him directly. “But I have a feeling if I did, he might stop,” Trump added.

For now, Trump’s sharpest shift was reserved for his remarks on Ukraine’s battlefield performance.

“This was supposed to be quick,” he said. “And so, you know, Russia doesn't look very distinguished. Having taken three and a half years now, three and a half years of very hard fighting. And it looks like it's not going to end for a long time."

He added that Indonesia would “take our share of the burden, not only with our sons and daughters, we are also willing to contribute financially to support the great mission to achieve peace by the United Nations.”

“Without the United Nations, we cannot be safe. No country can feel secure. We need the United Nations, and Indonesia will continue to support the United Nations, even though we still struggle, but we know the world needs a strong United Nations,” Prabowo said.

At the ceremony, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov praised the move as “a truly friendly step in the spirit of a genuine strategic partnership”, framing it as evidence of growing interest from the Global South and East in strengthening ties with Russia’s newly claimed territories.

Ortega Murillo described the agreements as an “honour”, expressing solidarity with the regions he said had “endured fascist attacks against their peoples and cultures” and had “exercised their historic right” to join the Russian Federation. He also stressed the “historic brotherhood” between Nicaragua and Russia, promising closer cooperation across multiple sectors.

The accords underscore Nicaragua’s status as one of Moscow’s closest allies in Latin America at a time when most of the international community continues to reject Russia’s annexations of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson. The United Nations has deemed the moves illegal under international law, and Western governments have imposed sanctions on both Russia and entities cooperating with its territorial claims.

By openly engaging with Russia’s annexed regions, Nicaragua further isolates itself from Western partners while consolidating its place in Moscow’s network of global allies willing to challenge international norms on sovereignty and territorial integrity.

However, Kibet says those papers were to enlist him in the Russian military.

After that, he says, his passport and phone were seized. He was moved to a military camp, where he was told he had one choice: fight or face death.

Fleeing the journey to his first mission, he approached Ukrainian soldiers with his hands up, pleading, “I’m Kenyan, don’t shoot.” He is now held in Ukraine, where he repeats that he never intended to join the military. His insights , posted by the Ukrainian army, remain unverified independently.

Russia’s foreign ministry has denied allegations that it uses visa renewals to coerce or trick foreign nationals into combat roles. Still, Evans’ story fits a pattern that international investigators and media outlets say is emerging.

By mid-2024, investigative outlet The Insider reported that over 600 African nationals were fighting for Russia. Many alleged coercion or deceit in how they were recruited.

Some accepted offers of high pay, passports, or promises of education and jobs. Others say they were lured in under false pretences.

Ukraine’s military intelligence (HUR) has issued reports that Moscow has intensified recruitment campaigns in African countries, including Rwanda, Uganda, Congo, and Burundi. Promised benefits include monthly pay, health insurance, and Russian citizenship for recruits and even their families.

Still, many recruited under such terms find themselves in life-or-death situations, with few avenues for escape or return. Evans’ case brings a human face to what researchers say is a growing global concern.

The latest statement builds on proposals raised at an earlier AES meeting in Bamako, where ministers discussed creating a Sahelian Criminal and Human Rights Court and establishing a high-security prison to try terrorism cases locally, reducing what they described as “dependence” on international justice institutions.

The AES, which brings together military-led governments in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, has frequently accused Western governments and media of undermining its security campaigns. Alongside the allegations against France and Ukraine, AES authorities have suspended broadcasts by France 24, RFI, and TV5Monde, and launched an investigation into a France 24 journalist over alleged ties to jihadist groups.

In the Pacific, India is making a strategic move in Fiji.

India is establishing a new defence wing at its High Commission in Suva. That comes with a defence attaché, maritime security support, equipment, training, and even a cybersecurity training cell.

It was announced during Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s visit to New Delhi. Both he and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised their shared commitment to a secure Indo-Pacific.

The move isn’t just about Fiji’s security. It’s about global politics. India is stepping up in the Pacific at a time when China has been building influence in the region. By helping Fiji secure its Exclusive Economic Zone, India positions itself as a partner of choice and signals its presence in the wider Indo-Pacific security architecture.

Respect in school

Now to Central America, where El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele is back in the headlines. This time it’s about schools. A new regulation, called the “Promotion of School Courtesy,” will take effect on September 1. It requires students to use polite phrases like good morning, please, and thank you.

If they don’t, they could face penalties ranging from warnings to suspension of privileges, or in extreme cases, even being held back a grade. Though there’s also a redemption system to regain points through positive actions.

It might sound like a small cultural policy, but it speaks volumes. Bukele is pushing a vision of social order that complements his tough security agenda. He’s saying: discipline isn’t just about gangs on the streets, it’s about behaviour in classrooms too.

And it is happening while his approval ratings are sky-high. Bukele has just been ranked the most popular leader in the world, 91% approval, higher than Putin, Modi, even Trump.

His popularity is directly linked to those hardline security measures—like the mega-prison known as CECOT, but also social measures like this, which resonate with parents and teachers. The bigger question is: at what point does such overwhelming support blur the lines between democracy and authoritarianism?

Military and development

Finally, to Southeast Asia where Indonesia is planning a massive expansion of its military’s role in development.

The government wants to establish 500 territorial development battalions by 2029, with 100 already in place. These aren’t just combat units, they’ll help implement government programmes, from economic downstreaming to national self-sufficiency projects.

And they have full budget backing from the Ministry of Finance, so this isn’t just a proposal.

The move reflects how Indonesia views its military not only as a defence force but also as a tool for state-building. But it’s a double-edged sword. On one hand, it can accelerate development in remote areas; on the other, it risks entrenching military influence in civilian governance.

Morocco's green bridge

Again this week we’ve been offered some insights from Eigenrac , the security and intelligence consultancy, this time relating to Morocco.

Less than 15 kilometers off mainland Europe, Morocco is the only African country which has a land border with the European Union, thanks to the two Spanish enclaves on the coast. These facts make it an ideal bridge between the continents. And when this is coupled with Morocco’s other geographical strengths, that would allow it to become a renewable energy superpower, there’s definitely a partnership to be made.

With plenty of sun for solar, mountains for hydroelectric and empty land for wind turbines, Morocco could fill the holes which are emerging in the EU’s net zero plans as a result of domestic resistance. It also has the potential to produce significant amounts of green hydrogen and even host some of the data centres which will be needed to power Europe’s digital transformation.

However, there are some risks to this vision.

Morocco has been a largely stable country in a region that is anything but. The risks are primarily around its government failing to maintain the confidence of its citizens. Climate change is a factor here, especially if clean energy or thirsty data centres start to compete with farmland for water. Inflation and unemployment have the potential to disrupt the economy if external factors hit the standard of living of ordinary people. And if wealth from these new investments are concentrated in a few urban centres that may also provoke unrest.

Then there’s the risk that bets in green hydrogen may not pay off with an uncertain demand for the fuel. And finally, risks that complicated regulatory processes will deter foreign investors

So it’s far from a done deal, but on the other hand, many African countries will be looking enviously at the position Morocco has got itself into through forward thinking and relationship building. Signs that the green and digital transitions may not leave Africa behind.

Divided by religion?

Let’s talk about religion in Africa. It’s a big subject and its importance runs deeply. The map shows the biggest religion in each nation. And its a very stark division showing states which are dominated by Islam in the north and states dominated by Christianity in the south. And there is a belt between the two where both religions are common.

There are also many other religions practiced in Africa, primarily traditional religions often described as animist. But the map recalls a point made in an essay by Ethiopian academic Seifudein Adem, who has written for Global South World this week about how Africa can improve its political systems. He says that the import of Christianity into Africa helped link western values with both modernisation and moral rectitude -in other words, good things tended to be associated with western practices.

The contrast he makes is with Japan where traditional religions were not replaced by an imported religion which meant modernisation could happen without having to adopt a foreign culture. He also suggests that the polytheism practiced in Japan meant that if one god stood in the way of adopting a new practice, a different god’s guidance could simply be sought instead. That doesn’t work with the monotheistic religions of Islam and Christianity and Adem lists this among a number of other reasons for holding back Africa’s ability to pick and choose different aspects of western practices to build its own modernisation.

Who's backing Ukraine?

Our final story this week is our World Visualized graphic which shows the amounts of aid given to Ukraine by its allies since 2022. Now the top donor in dollar terms is the USA at $126 billion, although Donald Trump has signed deals which he says will allow his country to claw back some of this spending. The European Union, as an entity has given only a little more than half that at $70 billion, although if you were to add up all the EU countries as a bloc the total would exceed America’s.

Japan, at $15 billion, is only a little behind the UK’s $20 billion despite being on the other side of the world. And Canada has also topped every EU nation aside from Germany. Despite Emmanuel Macron’s very vocal support for Kyiv, in financial terms his country has offered less than Denmark and Netherlands, according to these figures from the Kiel Institute. And what’s clear from that list is that this really is a battle of the Global North, which is not to say its consequences are not acutely felt in the Global South.

World Reframed is produced in London by Global South World, part of the Impactum Group. Its editors are Duncan Hooper and Ismail Akwei.

A bar chart from World Visualized overlays contributions from Germany (US$23.4 billion), the UK (US$20.5 billion), Japan (US$15 billion), Canada (US$13.1 billion), Denmark (US$11.1 billion), the Netherlands (US$9.9 billion), Sweden (US$8.4 billion) and France (US$8.4 billion).

These numbers come from the Ukraine Support Tracker (UST) maintained by the Kiel Institute for the World Economy , which aggregates military, financial and humanitarian pledges by governments since Russia’s full‑scale invasion.

According to the tracker’s data summarised by Al Jazeera , Ukraine had received more than €309 billion (about US$360 billion) in aid as of June 30 2025. This total comprises €149.26 billion in military assistance, €139.34 billion in financial aid, and €21.04 billion in humanitarian support.

The United States remains the single largest donor nation, committing €114.64 billion (roughly US$134 billion) to Ukraine by June 30 2025. Its support includes €64.6 billion in weapons and equipment, €46.6 billion in financial grants and loans, and €3.4 billion in humanitarian assistance.

The European Union (EU), meaning the European Commission and Council rather than the member states individually, is the second‑largest contributor, with €63.19 billion (US$74 billion) in aid. Among individual countries, Germany ranks third, committing around €21.29 billion (US$25 billion), followed by the United Kingdom with €18.6 billion (US$21 billion) and Japan with €13.57 billion (US$15 billion).

When all European countries are considered together, they have allocated €167.4 billion (US$195 billion)—a larger sum than the United States’ €114.6 billion allocation. Europe has also pledged €257.4 billion (US$300 billion) in total commitments compared with the US’s €119 billion.

The Kiel Institute’s Ukraine Support Tracker has monitored aid to Kyiv from January 24 2022, onward. It covers 41 donor countries, including EU member states, the G7 and other partners, and includes government‑to‑government transfers but excludes private donations and international‑organisation funds. The dataset is updated quarterly and is widely cited by journalists and policymakers.

Her remarks followed meetings in Washington between United States President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who was joined by several European leaders on August 18.

“China always believes that dialogue and negotiation are the only viable solutions to the Ukraine crisis. We support all efforts that are conducive to peace,” Mao told reporters.

“China supports all efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of the crisis and is glad to see Russia and the United States maintain contact, improve their relations and promote a political settlement process of the Ukraine crisis.”

Beijing also called on all parties taking part in the Washington talks to work towards a settlement.

“We hope that all parties and stakeholders will participate in the peace talks in a timely manner and reach a fair, lasting, binding and acceptable peace agreement to all parties as soon as possible,” Mao said.

The discussions in Washington come after a summit between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday.

That meeting did not result in a ceasefire but included pledges from both leaders to provide “robust security guarantees” to Ukraine.

Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, escalating a conflict that began in 2014 with Moscow’s annexation of Crimea.

The war has caused tens of thousands of deaths, displaced millions, and severely disrupted global energy and food markets.

The Power Index (PwrIndx) uses more than 60 factors ranging from manpower and equipment inventories to financial resources and logistics to gauge each nation’s theoretical war‑fighting capability. The lower the score, the stronger the military.

The latest Global Firepower ranking shows that Russia and China share the top spot in Asia, each with a PwrIndx score of 0.0788. Russia remains embroiled in its war in eastern Ukraine, yet the ranking underscores Moscow’s enduring conventional strength.

China, meanwhile, has leveraged massive defence spending and industrial capacity to match Russia’s score; analysts say Beijing’s growth extends beyond Asia, reflecting deepened ties in Africa and Latin America and heightened focus on Taiwan.

On the European side, the United Kingdom emerges as the continent’s strongest military power , scoring 0.1785 on the PwrIndx scale. Close behind is France at 0.1878, with Italy, Germany and Spain rounding out the top.

Notably, Ukraine and Poland both post Power Index scores around 0.37, reflecting rapid military build‑ups amid the ongoing war with Russia and NATO’s eastern expansion. The Netherlands completes the European top 10 with a 0.6412 score.

The Global Firepower ranking covers 145 countries worldwide. At the global level, the United States remains number one with a Power Index of 0.0744, reflecting unmatched naval strength, air power and global logistics. Russia and China, tied in Asia, follow closely at numbers two and three, respectively.

Global Firepower’s methodology does not measure nuclear arsenals but does factor in conventional firepower, defence budgets, natural resources and geographic conditions. The ranking notes that a perfect score of 0.0000 is unattainable.

The graphic shows varying levels of public support across EU member states for continuing financial and humanitarian aid to Ukraine, uncovering a significant rift between Western/Northern European countries and several nations in Central and Southeastern Europe.

According to the data:

According to internal briefings from the European Union Military Staff (EUMS), sustained public support is critical to long-term aid logistics and military coordination.

The EU’s European Peace Facility (EPF) has already allocated over €12 billion ($14 billion) in military assistance to Ukraine, in addition to billions more in civilian humanitarian aid and refugee resettlement.

Russia has recently focused on eastern Ukraine, claiming control over several parts of the Ukrainian regions.

Speaking on the Global South Conversations, Alyona Nevmerzhytska, the CEO of Ukrainian independent online news platform, Hromadske, said the only solution for peace in the region is for Russia “to be punished”. “It has never been punished. All this impunity during these years led to what we have now, and now all Europe is afraid of Russia…if Russia was punished as Germany after World War II, it would not be so aggressive.”

She added that occupied Eastern Ukraine has been cut off from Ukrainian media platforms, and the people have been given Russian passports, while others are fighting on the frontlines against their people.

“Unfortunately we do not know much about [the] people who are in occupied regions. They are cut from Ukraine-controlled territories. They are cut from the internet. Even if they have internet, they are cut from the pro-Ukrainian media. They are brainwashed, they are fed with the message that Ukrainian government and Ukrainian people do not care about them, that they are forgotten, that they need to take Russian passport because they give it left and right. You know, they just want more and more people to be Russians.

“I know for sure that all men that are there in occupied territories, they are mobilising them and they make them go and serve the Russian army. So there is a number of Ukrainians who are fighting on the front line now against us, against Ukraine-controlled territories. And we have many people who escape from Eastern Ukraine to here, to central part to Western part of Ukraine,” she told Ismail Akwei.

On the call for elections to be held in Ukraine, she clarified that the Ukrainian martial law that says during war, elections are not held, makes Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s presidency legitimate and calls to organise an election were a ploy to have a pro-Russian leader who would accept the terms of Russia.

“That's something that Putin wants. He wants to have reelection and he wants a pro-Russian president here in Ukraine. Then it would be possible to stop the war immediately with the person who is not interested in regaining our territories back…And actually, what Trump started for some time [that] there should be elections in Ukraine. He wants the person who would be easy to negotiate with and who would be easier to lean towards any suggestions for peace that Russia suggests.

“But for Russia, if there is a freeze on the war, and if, for example, even hypothetically their is a new leader in Ukraine who would stop the war. This is just a time for Russia to run [back] to make more arms, to mobilise more people and come back in a few years. This is something that is not going to stop, you know, this peace will not be… trust peace, it's not justice peace. It's just for Russia to reorganise, rearm, remobilize new people and invade again,” she said.

Watch the full interview attached to this story.

Background

On Tuesday, both the White House and the Pentagon confirmed the decision to pause certain military aid to Ukraine, with White House spokesperson Anna Kelly stating that the move was made to prioritise U.S. interests. "This decision was made to put America's interests first following a review of our nation's military support and assistance to other countries across the globe," Kelly said in a statement.

The move follows increasing concerns over the strain on U.S. military stockpiles, which have been heavily depleted due to continuous aid to Ukraine, as well as military operations in other regions such as Yemen and Iran . Last month, U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered a comprehensive review of munitions stocks, particularly focusing on weapons promised to Ukraine over the past three years of conflict. Reports have indicated that some stocks have fallen too low, raising alarms about U.S. military readiness.

The Pentagon’s strategy and future implications

The Pentagon's undersecretary for policy , Elbridge Colby, emphasised that while some aid would be halted, the department would continue to offer "robust options" to the president in support of Ukraine while balancing the need to preserve U.S. military readiness.

Colby stated , "At the same time, the department is rigorously examining and adapting its approach to achieving this objective while also preserving U.S. forces' readiness for administration defence priorities."

The decision also coincides with U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the NATO summit in The Hague. Trump revealed that Ukraine had expressed strong interest in acquiring U.S.-made Patriot air defence missiles, a request he indicated may be met despite acknowledging that the U.S. itself also needed the systems.

Since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in February 2022, the U.S. has provided over 66 billion dollars in military aid to Ukraine.

This change comes as Al Jazeera and other global outlets report that U.S. military spending nearly doubles the combined budgets of all its NATO allies. The move to increase commitments is seen as both a response to growing global threats and a bid to ease the burden long shouldered by Washington.

For decades, NATO’s defence spending benchmark stood at 2% of each member’s GDP, a target that many struggled to meet. But with rising geopolitical tensions—from Russia ’s war in Ukraine to growing cyber threats and global instability—the alliance has raised the bar significantly.

This marks the largest increase in collective military investment in NATO’s history.

Even with this new commitment, the U.S. remains the undisputed defence heavyweight. According to data highlighted in Al Jazeera’s recent analysis, the U.S. defence budget outpaces the total military spending of all other NATO nations combined. The Pentagon’s funding dwarfs that of top European contributors like Germany, the UK, and France, reinforcing America's role as the alliance's cornerstone.

In 2025 alone, the U.S. military budget exceeded $877 billion, compared to roughly $450 billion for all other NATO allies combined. This disparity has long been a point of contention, particularly under previous U.S. administrations that pressured allies to contribute more.

This landmark decision, confirmed during a joint summit and reported by Reuters , underscores the alliance’s heightened concern over geopolitical threats, particularly from Russia and China.

The newly released estimates for 2024 show that some member states are already pushing well beyond the old 2% goal.

Top NATO defence spenders in 2024 (by % of GDP)

This surge in military investment reflects a collective response to evolving security threats, especially in Eastern Europe, where Poland and the Baltic States are now on the front lines of NATO's strategic posture.

As reported by Reuters , NATO’s revised 5% defence target comes amid ongoing warfare in Ukraine, increased cyber threats, and growing instability in the Indo-Pacific region. Leaders emphasised the need for stronger deterrence and rapid military modernisation.

While the United States continues to dominate in raw military spending (with a massive global footprint), European allies like Poland, Estonia, and Latvia are now contributing a significantly higher percentage of their GDP toward defence.

Poland's 4.12% commitment reflects its proximity to Russia and Ukraine , as well as a massive military modernisation plan that includes purchasing U.S.-made Abrams tanks, F-35 fighter jets, and HIMARS missile systems.

At the lower end of the spectrum, Spain (1.28%), Slovenia (1.29%), Belgium (1.30%), and Canada (1.37%) remain below both the former 2% threshold and the new 5% goal. These nations may face growing pressure to accelerate defence reforms and increase contributions to NATO operations.

The major no-fly zones in 2025

1. Ukraine

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukrainian airspace has been off-limits to commercial flights. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) have classified Ukraine’s skies as extremely high-risk due to the presence of anti-aircraft weaponry and ongoing missile attacks.

2. Iran and the Persian Gulf Corridor

Tensions between Iran, Israel, and the U.S. have escalated dramatically in recent months. In response to heightened conflict in the region, many international carriers have rerouted flights to avoid Iranian airspace, especially near its western border and the Strait of Hormuz.

How airlines manage no-fly zones

Airlines rely heavily on real-time data from agencies like ICAO, FAA, Eurocontrol, and EASA, as well as private aviation risk assessors like OPSGROUP. Airspace closures require costly rerouting , longer fuel burns, and schedule delays — but safety is paramount.

Many carriers have added hundreds of kilometres to flight paths to comply with advisories. For example:

This proposal represents a significant evolution from previous Western strategies, which have primarily focused on arming Ukraine without direct troop deployments.

A bloc of countries across Northern, Central, and Southern Europe has expressed willingness to participate.

Nordic States like Sweden, Denmark, and Norway have signalled a strong commitment, aligned with their broader pro-NATO security stance. Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, all of which share borders with Russia or Belarus, also see troop participation as a critical component of regional defence.

Poland, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia have long been among Ukraine’s staunchest allies. Additionally, Portugal and Italy have shown openness, although domestic political dynamics could influence their final decisions.

Germany, however, remains non-committal. Despite being one of Ukraine’s top arms donors, Berlin is wary of direct troop involvement. Hungary, led by Viktor Orbán, continues to pursue a more Russia-friendly policy , while Neutral countries like Ireland, Austria, and Switzerland are unlikely to join due to constitutional and historical constraints.

Eastern and Southeastern European countries such as Romania, Bulgaria, and the Balkans are similarly absent from the current plan, either undecided or reluctant.

Although this seems like a good start for Ukraine, Russia on Sunday, May 25, launched the largest aerial attack on the former.

This attack comes after pressure from the USA on Russia to end the 3-year-long invasion of Ukraine.

US President called Putin "absolutely crazy" after the attack killed at least 13 people.

“I’ve always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia, but something has happened to him. He has gone absolutely CRAZY!” the US president wrote on his Truth platform.

What happens next?