The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway located between Iran, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Oman. It is one of the most important global energy transit routes, with about 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passing through it. The strait has been effectively closed by Iran since the United States and Israel launched attacks on 28 February. This has disrupted one of the world’s busiest oil shipping channels.

"Russia can offer the world such solutions and play an important role in shaping the new architecture of global logistics and international trade as a whole. For our partners, Russian logistic routes can be economically beneficial due to reduced transportation times as well as in terms of diversifying global transport flows," he added.

According to estimates from the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), about 20 million barrels of oil passed through the strait per day in 2025. This represents nearly $600 billion (£447 billion) in annual energy trade .

Moscow described the mission as routine, saying the aircraft carried out scheduled patrols and training exercises, including aerial refuelling, in full compliance with international airspace rules. 

The flights took place outside Japanese territorial airspace, and no official response has yet been issued by Tokyo on whether assets were scrambled to monitor the activity.

What happened

According to the Russian defence ministry , MiG-31I aircraft equipped with Kinzhal hypersonic missiles conducted patrol flights over neutral waters in the Sea of Japan. Crews practised in-flight refuelling as part of the exercise. The ministry characterised the mission as a standard operation by the Aerospace Forces.

Why it matters

The patrols were disclosed publicly by Moscow — an unusual step — and occurred just ahead of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s visit to the United States. Analysts say the timing suggests the flights may have been intended to signal Russia’s military capabilities and presence in the region.

The capability

The Kh-47M2 Kinzhal is an air-launched hypersonic missile, reportedly derived from the Iskander short-range ballistic missile. Russia says it can reach speeds of up to Mach 10 and strike targets at distances of around 2,000 kilometres, with the ability to carry both conventional and nuclear warheads. However, some Western experts have questioned the extent of its hypersonic performance, noting interceptions during the war in Ukraine.

Relationship under strain

Russian and Chinese military activity near Japan’s airspace regularly triggers monitoring operations by Japanese forces. Recent surveillance missions have included Japanese aircraft tracking foreign naval movements near the archipelago. Relations between Tokyo and Moscow remain strained, particularly over a long-running territorial dispute and Japan’s support for Ukraine following Russia’s invasion.

The bigger picture

Some analysts view the flights as a demonstration that Russia can sustain a military presence in key maritime corridors linking Northeast Asia to the Pacific. The move also comes amid shifting global deployments, with the United States engaged in other conflicts, potentially altering regional security dynamics.

The Presidency confirmed that four of the men returned to South Africa on Friday, February 20. Eleven others were expected to return home soon, while two would follow at a later stage.

On Tuesday, February 24, the government said that 11 of the 17 men were set to return after the initial four arrived last week. Two remained in Russia, with one receiving medical treatment in a hospital in Moscow.

“Two remain in Russia with one in a hospital in Moscow, while the other one is being processed before finalising his travel arrangements,” presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said.

“President Ramaphosa has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to President Vladimir Putin, who responded positively to his call to support the process of returning the men home,” Magwenya said.

An investigation into their recruitment is ongoing, as under South African law, working as a mercenary or fighting on behalf of another government is illegal unless authorised by the state.

Last Friday, two European researchers linked South Africa’s uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party , founded by former president Jacob Zuma, to alleged efforts to recruit Africans to fight for Russia in Ukraine. The researchers claimed that some migrants were lured with job offers and later pushed into military service.

The MK Party was mentioned among South African actors connected to recruitment efforts. The researchers also linked former member of the National Assembly Zuma-Sambudla, who is also the daughter of Jacob Zuma, to the allegations.

In November 2025, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla resigned from Parliament following allegations that she helped lure 17 men to fight as mercenaries in Russia’s war against Ukraine. Her resignation came after police announced that she was under investigation over claims that she had enticed South Africans to travel to Russia.

The allegations emerged after the group of men, aged between 20 and 39, reportedly ended up on the front lines of the war in Ukraine.

Signed in 2010 and extended in 2021, New START capped the U.S. and Russian arsenals at 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads on 700 delivery systems, including intercontinental missiles, submarine-launched missiles, and heavy bombers. 

Despite the treaty, both nations maintain far larger stockpiles: Russia is estimated to have 5,459 nuclear warheads, while the U.S. has around 5,177. New START only applied to deployed strategic weapons, leaving much of the arsenals unrestricted.

For the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), the implication is clear: the treaty’s expiration could unleash a new wave of unchecked nuclear risk.

“Without it, the risk of nuclear use will likely increase due to a potential renewed arms race,” the organization said.

Why are there no new agreements?

New START had already been under strain for years. Inspections were suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic, and rising tensions over the Russian invasion of Ukraine led the U.S. to declare Russia in non-compliance in 2023. Russia then suspended its participation, rejecting inspections and data exchanges.

The treaty could have been replaced or extended, but no agreement has been reached. Russia suggested a one-year continuation of the limits, and U.S. President Donald Trump expressed interest in a broader deal including China — but nothing has been finalized.

ICAN emphasized that all nuclear-armed states remain legally obligated to pursue disarmament under the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty (NPT). The next NPT Review Conference is scheduled for April to May 2026 in New York.

“At times of high tension among nations, disarmament measures are all the more important,” ICAN said. “The dire international security environment at present, rather than serving as an excuse for inaction, must spur urgent action on disarmament.”

ICAN warned that with the treaty gone, “it is in no country’s interest to increase global nuclear arsenals. All nuclear-armed states should adhere to and implement existing international agreements on nuclear disarmament.”

The expiration of New START leaves the world at a critical juncture. Without enforceable limits on the U.S. and Russia, the risk of miscalculation, escalation, and a renewed nuclear arms race is rising.

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.

“Donald Trump has ushered in a new world order where the military might prevail over rule of law and respect for an independent country’s sovereignty,” he said, arguing that the seizure of a foreign leader by force placed the US in the same category as the powers it routinely condemns.

Julian Borger, a senior international correspondent at The Guardian, described the strikes and abduction as a devastating blow to global norms. 

“The overnight strikes on Venezuela, the abduction of its leader, Nicolás Maduro, and his wife, and Donald Trump’s declaration that the US would ‘run’ the country and sell its oil, have driven another truck through international law and global norms,” he wrote .

For Mogato, the implications extend far beyond Venezuela, and complicates Washington’s stance in criticising Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine or Beijing’s potential use of force against Taiwan. 

“Washington has lost its moral ascendancy after launching military operations in Caracas and grabbed its leader, Nicolas Maduro,” he said.

What’s the real purpose?

Hours after Maduro’s removal, the US president said his administration was ready to fix Venezuela’s oil industry and sell its output. 

Borger said Trump had made clear he was “more covetous of Venezuela’s oil than motivated by a desire to bring Maduro before a court, or deliver democracy.”

He cited US analyst David Rothkopf, who labelled the shift the “Putinization of US foreign policy ”, noting that Moscow has long argued that great powers are entitled to dominate their neighbourhoods by force.

Despite just days after the operation, Mogato said the consequences were already visible. 

“The world has become more dangerous and chaotic in 2026,” he said, describing a landscape in which “stronger states imposed their will on smaller and weaker states.”

Borger warned that anxiety would not be confined to Latin America , pointing to Trump’s recent threats against Iran, Greenland and Cuba. Events in Venezuela, he said, would “cause immediate anxiety” among governments that now fear they could be next.

Putin added that the strong ties between Moscow and Beijing serve as a “significant factor of stability in the world ,” stressing that cooperation between the two countries continues to expand across multiple sectors.

He highlighted collaboration in high-tech manufacturing, science, education, humanitarian exchanges and space exploration as evidence of deep mutual trust. Putin also pointed to close military cooperation, including regular joint exercises, strategic aviation patrols, naval drills and operations involving ground forces.

The remarks were made during the televised event Year in Review with Vladimir Putin , which combines the president’s annual phone-in with citizens and his end-of-year press conference. Both formats have been held since 2001 and were merged into a single event in 2023.

The broadcast typically spans several hours and covers a wide range of issues, including international relations, global conflicts, domestic social concerns, and economic and technological developments.

Last year’s edition attracted about 2.4 million questions from the public, with 76 answered live on air. The programme ran for four hours and 30 minutes, just 10 minutes short of its longest-ever duration in 2008.

Experts say the unfolding situation reflects a deeper alignment between Moscow and Caracas, particularly as Venezuela faces growing diplomatic and military tension with Washington. Analysts observe that while Venezuela’s request is likely to be framed as defensive, it may deepen Caracas’s dependence on Moscow at a time when Russia is itself facing significant global constraints.

The Russian acknowledgement of contact comes at a time when Venezuela’s government has been under heavy international scrutiny and U.S. focus. For Russia, maintaining ties with Caracas offers geopolitical benefits, including influence in Latin America and access to resources and networks beyond Western oversight.

As the situation develops, the world will be watching how Venezuela’s strategy evolves — whether it remains a diplomatic show of solidarity or translates into tangible military cooperation between Russia, Venezuela and other allied states.

“Russia has always, since 1948, and then also in 1974, when the relevant UN Security Council resolution was adopted, advocated for the creation of two states – Israel and a Palestinian state,” he said. “And this, in my opinion, is the key to a final solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.”

The Russian leader said that, as far as he understood, Trump’s proposal included creating an international body to govern Gaza for a transitional period, with former British Prime Minister Tony Blair named to head it. 

While acknowledging Blair’s controversial reputation, Putin noted his political experience.

“In my view, it would be better to entrust everything to President Abbas and today’s Palestinian administration,” he added. “It might be difficult for them to solve security-related issues, but … it provides for the possibility of transferring control over the Gaza Strip, including to the local police to ensure security.”

Putin suggested that such an arrangement could be “a breakthrough” if implemented sincerely and accepted by all sides. 

“What’s important, even more than the public statement, is essentially how the Israeli leadership will relate to this. Whether they will fulfil everything proposed there by the President of the United States ,” he said.

“There are a lot of questions, but in general, if all these positive things I mentioned occur, it can, of course, be a breakthrough. The breakthrough can be very positive,” Putin added.

The comments marked a rare moment of alignment between Moscow and Washington, with Putin signaling openness to a U.S.-backed initiative despite ongoing tensions between the two powers on other fronts.

On this occasion, they are packed in here like in a subway at rush hour, and every speech we have heard and will hear only reiterates the previous ones and [...] has no relation to the truth," Polyansky told the chaber.

The Russian envoy claimed that European powers were undermining the prospects of a “sustainable peace” by promising security guarantees to Ukraine, which he said risked triggering a new conflict on the continent.

“Our meeting, of course, will not add any value to the cause of establishing peace in Ukraine and will only become yet another shameful episode of that fair of hypocrisy,” he said.

Polyansky also invoked remarks by Poland’s former president, Andrzej Duda, who once warned that Ukraine was “like a drowning person” pulling others down. He suggested that Europe now faced an “inglorious fate” by continuing to fund Kyiv.

European leaders struck back with sharp criticism. Finland’s President Alexander Stubb said Russia’s assault on Ukraine represented a daily violation of the UN Charter and a fundamental threat to international order.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez condemned what he described as repeated Russian incursions into European airspace and urged the international community to respond “with determination and unity.”

European Council President António Costa said the bloc would press ahead with sanctions on Moscow and continue to back Ukraine’s ambition of full EU membership. Italy’s foreign minister, Antonio Tajani, meanwhile, insisted Europe was “not at war with Russia” but urged Moscow to return to dialogue.

Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, after recognising separatist entities in Donetsk and Luhansk and demanding that Kyiv renounce NATO membership. Kyiv denounced the move as an invasion, while the EU and United States imposed sweeping sanctions in response.

Trump, despite often claiming strong personal ties with Xi, Putin and Kim, appeared unsettled by the display. He dismissed the parade as a “conspiracy” among the three leaders and read it as a direct message from the world’s largest standing military — America’s main rival in firepower.

“I thought it was a beautiful ceremony. I thought it was very, very impressive,” Trump said. “But I understood the reason they were doing it — they were hoping I was watching, and I was watching.”

For Ila Joshi, an international relations scholar focused on China and India, the Victory Day event was meant as a blunt signal to Washington.

“It was definitely a show of might and strength and a very traditional understanding of power that we saw,” Joshi told Global South World. 

The September 3 parade marked the anniversary of the end of World War II and the Second Sino-Japanese War. For more than 70 minutes, the People ’s Liberation Army showcased domestically built missiles, tanks, aircraft and other weapons. 

Notably, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi skipped the ceremony, despite attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in China days earlier.

Against the backdrop of Trump’s renaming order and China’s martial display, Joshi argued that world leaders remain trapped in a narrow view of power.

“ Foreign policy being understood only in terms of war is again something which is very disturbing,” she said. “I think that the very masculinities which were being shown off there, those were something which I guess we also need to rethink about.” 

While the parade and summit stirred talk of an emerging anti-Western bloc, they also highlighted the tightening alignment of countries with strained relations with Washington.

That, Joshi suggested, should serve as a warning for Trump.

“Trump's erratic behaviour is not going to solve the issues,” Joshi said. “They should actually contemplate now what has been done by the Trump administration.”

“Even if it is Trump, I guess present Trump is intelligent enough to understand the repercussions. Now, he should be intelligent enough not to repeat those mistakes.”

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday, September 1, that the two countries stood side by side even in difficult times, after Putin called him a “dear friend” and offered him a ride in his armoured limousine. The interaction took place on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Tianjin, where Modi also joined Chinese President Xi Jinping. China and India remain the biggest buyers of Russian crude oil despite U.S. tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. Modi later posted a photo on X of his limousine ride with Putin.

Modi and Xi pledge to resolve border issues

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi pledged on Sunday, August 31, to address their long-standing border differences and strengthen cooperation ahead of the SCO summit in Tianjin. This was Modi’s first visit to China since the 2020 border clashes that strained ties. Modi noted progress in bilateral relations and emphasised the importance of peace along the borders for continued development. Xi said the meeting should “further elevate” the relationship and that the border issue should not define the overall trajectory of China-India ties.

India’s economic growth fails to lift markets

India’s GDP grew 7.8% in the April–June quarter, but nominal growth slowed to 8.8% from 10.8%, signalling weaker inflation. Corporate earnings reflected the slowdown, with revenue growth of the top 3,000 listed companies slipping to a seven-quarter low of 3.4%. Analysts at ICICI Bank and Janus Henderson Investors warned of weak credit growth, asset quality concerns in banks, and the drag of U.S. tariffs on investor confidence. Foreign funds are expected to remain cautious despite the country’s strong real growth figures.

Rohingya refugees expelled without protection

Indian authorities have expelled scores of Rohingya refugees to Bangladesh and Myanmar since May 2025, Human Rights Watch said. Many were arbitrarily detained and mistreated before being deported, including 192 UNHCR-registered refugees sent to Bangladesh and 40 forced to swim ashore in Myanmar. The campaign, initiated in BJP-governed states, has led dozens more to flee to Bangladesh. HRW condemned the expulsions as violations of international law and accused the government of targeting Muslims under its policy of branding them “illegal immigrants.”

U.S. advisor criticises India over Russia ties

U.S. President Donald Trump’s advisor Peter Navarro renewed criticism of India’s oil trade with Russia, accusing the country of indirectly funding Moscow’s war in Ukraine. In an interview with Fox News, Navarro alleged that “Brahmins are profiteering at the expense of Indians” and called India a “laundromat for the Kremlin.” He defended the 50% U.S. tariffs on Indian goods, saying 25% reflected India’s own “Maharaja of tariffs.” Navarro argued that India’s discounted oil purchases, which are resold to other markets, fuel the Russian war machine.

“To uphold international fairness and justice , we must take action through Shanghai Cooperation. Member states, adhering to principles of fairness, constructively engage in international and regional affairs and defend the shared interests of the Global South,” Xi said.

“We must resolutely oppose hegemonism and power politics and practise genuine multilateralism, acting as a cornerstone for the diversification of the world and democratisation of international relations,” he continued. 

China also announced plans for expanded cooperation in areas including renewable energy, green industry, digital economy, artificial intelligence, education, and healthcare. It said the SCO remains committed to non-alignment, inclusive growth, and serving as a stabilising force in global affairs.

The SCO is a regional intergovernmental organisation founded in June 2001 by China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. It was created to strengthen political, security, and economic cooperation across Eurasia, building on the earlier “Shanghai Five” mechanism established in 1996.

Today, the SCO has nine full members: China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Iran. The organisation also has observer states, including Afghanistan, Belarus, and Mongolia, as well as dialogue partners such as Turkey, Sri Lanka, and Saudi Arabia.

Modi, Putin talk Ukraine war

On the sidelines of the summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held bilateral talks that focused on the two global powers’ partnership and the war in Ukraine.

Putin described relations between Moscow and New Delhi as “special, friendly and trusting,” saying this foundation would continue to guide future cooperation. Modi described the partnership as “special, privileged, and strategic.” 

“Even in the most challenging circumstances, India and Russia have consistently moved forward together, shoulder to shoulder. Our close co-operation is vital not only for the peoples of our two nations but also for maintaining global peace, stability, and prosperity,” the Indian president said.

On Ukraine, Modi said the two leaders “regularly share perspectives on the ongoing conflict ” and reiterated India’s position on peace efforts. 

“We welcome all recent efforts to establish peace and hope that all parties will approach this matter constructively. We must find ways to bring the conflict to an end and restore peace as swiftly as possible. This is a call shared by all of humanity,” he said.

Putin used his appearance at the SCO to defend Moscow’s position, claiming Russia’s actions in Ukraine were “a result of a coup…supported and provoked by the West” and blaming NATO expansion for fuelling tensions. 

He praised the SCO for promoting “genuine multilateralism” and for “laying the political and socio-economic groundwork for the formation of a new system of stability and security in Eurasia,” which he said would move away from “outdated Eurocentric and Euro-Atlantic models.”

Turkey has discovered a new natural gas reserve of 75 billion cubic metres in the Black Sea, President Tayyip Erdogan announced on May 17. The reserve, located in the Goktepe-3 well at a depth of 3,500 metres, is estimated to be worth approximately $30 billion. According to Erdogan, the find could supply household natural gas needs in Turkey for 3.5 years. The country’s daily production at the Sakarya field has reached 9.5 million cubic metres, supporting its broader energy development goals.

Putin and Trump to skip Russia–Ukraine Talks in Turkey

Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the upcoming Russia–Ukraine talks in Turkey, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed to CNN on May 15. When asked about Putin’s attendance, Peskov replied, “No.” Former U.S. President Donald Trump, who previously suggested he might alter his Middle East travel plans to join the negotiations, will also be absent. He stated that Putin’s non-attendance was not disappointing and that no progress on Ukraine would occur until he meets with the Russian leader.

U.S. approves $304 million missile sale to Turkey

The United States has approved the sale of missiles worth $304 million to Turkey, pending Congressional approval. The sale includes 53 advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles valued at $225 million and 60 Block II missiles priced at $79.1 million, according to the Defence Security Cooperation Agency. RTX Corporation is designated as the principal contractor. The announcement coincided with Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Turkey for a NATO foreign ministers' meeting. He is scheduled to continue to Istanbul for possible ceasefire talks between Russian and Ukrainian officials.

India reviews business ties with Turkey following its support for Pakistan

Turkey was among the few countries that openly backed Pakistan during its recent conflict with India. In response, the Indian government is reviewing its diplomatic and economic relations with Turkey. According to News18 , the Modi-led administration is reassessing agreements with Turkish companies across sectors such as automobiles, information technology, metro rail, and infrastructure. According to the report, these contracts are under scrutiny and may be subject to termination.

Turkish Foreign Minister to address U.S. sanctions lift on Syria 

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced on Thursday, May 15, that he will discuss the recent U.S. decision to lift sanctions on Syria, as well as the path forward, during meetings with his American and Syrian counterparts. Fidan made the statement during an informal NATO foreign ministers’ gathering in Antalya, Turkey, where he is scheduled to meet U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani. The announcement follows a decision by U.S. President Donald Trump earlier this week to remove sanctions on Syria.

"In March, the Ukrainian president said in Jeddah that he agreed to an unconditional ceasefire. And yesterday, the Ukrainian president said he had decided to meet (with Vladimir Putin) in Istanbul. This is the second time he has made major concessions. We must all be reasonable now. Either Russia, Mr Putin, is serious and wants peace, or it is not serious and we must impose even tougher sanctions ," Macron told the press on Monday, May 12.

Western leaders, including those from the United States , issued a firm demand on Saturday, May 10, for Moscow to implement an unconditional 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine beginning Monday, warning that failure to comply would trigger intensified sanctions targeting Russia’s banking and energy sectors.

Putin, however, on the same day, countered with a proposal to engage in talks in Istanbul.

“We are committed to serious negotiations with Ukraine … to remove the root causes of the conflict,” he said at a news conference. “I do not exclude that during these negotiations it will be possible to agree on some new ceasefire.”

President Vladimir Putin presided over the Victory Day celebrations, which included a procession of tanks, missiles, and troops. The ceremony was attended by more than two dozen world leaders, among them Chinese President Xi Jinping, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and Burkina Faso’s junta leader Ibrahim Traore.

Victory Day is Russia’s most prominent secular holiday, commemorating the Soviet Union’s role in the Allied victory in 1945. This year’s celebration was the largest since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine and marked the highest level of international representation in Moscow in the past decade.

Russia is preparing to hold a military parade on May 9 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germany's defeat—an event President Vladimir Putin aims to use as a demonstration of national strength.

Some residents welcomed any temporary lull in fighting as a chance to seek safety, reconnect with family, or access basic supplies.

"Today, at least I slept. The night before last, no. I think today was calmer," Nastya, a resident, told AFP.

Kateryna, on the other hand, shared, "They say we have a ceasefire, like, 'we’re not firing heavy weapons,' but at the crossing zone, everything is the same as it was. They are inconsistent in their actions. It seems that no one is paying attention to this — we are. After the other day, when we had 12 Shahed drones , I even thought about boarding up my windows. Those are the kinds of thoughts I have. I’m not even thinking about a ceasefire."

The order, which is expected to last from May 8 to May 10 , is met with suspicion by many Ukrainians who recall previous truces being violated or used as cover for repositioning troops.

For Andriy Yermak, Zelenskiy's chief of staff, "The Kremlin's proposal for a three-day truce is not about peace , but about safely holding the parade in Moscow. This is political manipulation."

"The only thing we have to do, the only thing, I reiterated to President Trump whom I had two days ago at night, the only thing, is for President Putin finally to stop lying," Macron said.

Public sentiment varies across different populations. ​A recent IPSOS report surveyed 23,721 adults across 33 countries, revealing the highest levels of optimism. China led with 59% of respondents expressing optimism, followed by Indonesia at 56% and India at 51%, while the global average stood at 27%.

U.S. President Donald Trump has emphasised the urgency of reaching a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine, asserting that it needs to be finalised soon to end Europe's most devastating conflict in 80 years.

This dream is, however, on the brink of being dashed as Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's visit to the White House on Friday, February 28 ended in an aggressive exchange with President Trump.

Zelenskyy was set to sign a mineral rights deal with Trump which will grant the U.S. a stake in Ukraine's rare earth elements, purportedly to reimburse war aid costs.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine, which began on February 24, 2022 , has had devastating consequences. The conflict started with attacks on major cities like Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa, and Sumy. As of January 2025, the United Nations had verified over 12,600 civilian deaths, with millions more displaced.

The displacement of Ukrainians has put a strain on neighbouring countries, with Poland recording the highest number of border crossings, followed by Hungary, Romania, and Russia.

The international community has taken economic measures against Russia, with the U.S., European Union, UK, and allied nations imposing financial and trade sanctions. These sanctions target Russia's financial sector, government-affiliated individuals, and high-tech exports, aiming to cripple the country's ability to wage war.

Throughout the conflict, the U.S. Department of Defence has played a significant role in supporting Ukraine, providing over $66.5 billion in security assistance since the start of the Biden administration.

Zelenskyy clarified that this arrangement does not entail Ukraine incurring any debt, stating, "The main thing for me is we are not debtors. There is no $500 billion debt in the agreement, nor $350, nor $100 billion because that would be unfair."

The current framework focuses on a revenue-sharing model, establishing a jointly controlled fund to manage the proceeds from state-owned mineral resources. While the agreement is part of broader discussions that could potentially encompass future security guarantees, no specific assurances have been confirmed at this stage.

The finalised agreement is expected to be signed following further discussions between Presidents Zelenskyy and Trump on Friday, February 28.

Zelenskyy has consistently maintained that financial aid received during the conflict should not be construed as debt, expressing concerns about agreements that could impose long-term financial burdens on Ukraine.

He emphasised the importance of fair and equitable partnerships, stating, "I'm not going to sign something that ten generations of Ukrainians will be paying for."

Zelensky's comments were in response to Trump's remarks on Tuesday, February 18, where he questioned Ukraine's involvement in the war and even suggested that Zelensky's approval rating was at 4%. However, Zelensky pointed out that this claim originated from Russia and cited a recent poll showing his approval rate at 57%.

Speaking at a joint press conference alongside German opposition leader Friedrich Merz, Zelenskyy expressed Ukraine’s openness to negotiations while acknowledging the challenges posed by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"We talked about the frozen conflict in a recent meeting with Trump and Macron. I said that we want the war to end more than anyone else in the world. Certainly, a diplomatic end to the war will bring more lives saved," Zelenskyy stated.

However, the Ukrainian leader emphasised his scepticism about Putin’s willingness to end the conflict voluntarily. He called for increased international support to strengthen Ukraine's position.

“I emphasised to President Macron and President Trump. First of all, you will see that Putin does not want this war to end, so he has to be forced into peace. He can only be forced if Ukraine is strong," Zelenskyy said.

Trump, preparing to assume office on January 20, has consistently voiced confidence in his ability to end the war quickly. Following his meeting with Zelenskyy in Paris, Trump told the New York Post that the Ukrainian president is eager to negotiate a ceasefire.

“He wants to have a cease-fire,” Trump told the newspaper. “He wants to make peace. We didn’t talk about the details. He thinks it’s time, and [Russian President Vladimir] Putin should think it’s time because he’s lost—when you lose 700,000 people, it’s time. It’s not going to end until there’s a peace.”

Speaking at a press conference in Oslo on Monday, December 9, Tanaka’s appeal came a day before he and two other co-chairs were set to formally accept the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize on behalf of the organisation, AFP reports.

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin began issuing nuclear threats shortly after launching a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. In late November, he signed a decree lowering the threshold for deploying atomic weapons.

Nihon Hidankyo, which represents Japan’s “hibakusha” (atomic bomb survivors), has long advocated for the abolition of nuclear weapons worldwide. The group emphasised that their efforts are not about seeking financial reparations.

"We're not looking for monetary compensation. What we would like to see from the United States is for them to abolish their nuclear weapons," Tanaka said.

The atomic bombings of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, and Nagasaki three days later remain the only instances of nuclear weapons being used in warfare. The attacks resulted in the deaths of approximately 140,000 people in Hiroshima and 74,000 in Nagasaki. Survivors endured severe radiation sickness and long-term health issues, including an increased risk of cancer.

Tanaka, who was 13 at the time of the Nagasaki bombing, expressed deep concern over the current global discourse surrounding nuclear weapons. "The fact that the use of nuclear weapons is being discussed so lightly is something that we find very regrettable, and it makes us feel sad. Furthermore, as we get older, we feel that we need to do something about this," he said.

Nihon Hidankyo faces challenges as its membership declines due to the ageing survivor population. The Japanese government estimates that around 106,800 hibakusha are still alive, with an average age of 85.

Trump, who has long criticized U.S. military aid to Ukraine and expressed his admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin, has repeatedly suggested—though without specifics—that he could quickly end the war if elected.

"I hope that if Trump is elected, the situation in Ukraine will improve and develop," said Alexander, a 48-year-old engineer.

Trump’s stance on the conflict has focused on reducing U.S. support for Ukraine, particularly the billions of dollars in military aid sent to Kyiv to help counter Russian advances. However, the former president has not detailed what steps he would take to achieve a resolution or whether his proposed approach would involve direct negotiations with Moscow.

Despite Trump's rhetoric, Russia’s military has made significant territorial gains in Ukraine over the past months, and Moscow has insisted that it will only accept a peace deal if Ukraine agrees to surrender large portions of its territory.

Many in Moscow believe that a Trump presidency could lead to a reduction in U.S. military assistance to Ukraine, which would shift the balance of the ongoing war. "If Trump is elected, at this point, there will likely be less aid to Ukraine and a big change in U.S. domestic politics," Yevgeny, a 19-year-old student told AFP.

However, some Muscovites are more sceptical, remembering that during Trump’s previous term, despite his often anti-interventionist rhetoric, U.S. policy toward Russia did not significantly change. "Campaigning is one thing, and actually sitting in the chair and taking action is quite another," said Ivan. "Something will change, but it’s too early to say what."

It is sold by an FSB veterans' support charity on Ozon, one of Russia's largest online marketplaces.

The front cover features a jacked image of the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Both presidents are portrayed with biceps wearing tight-fitting clothing alongside a text that says “FSB Special Operations Centre of Russia. Fund for Supporting Veterans of Combat Operations of Department S.”

One artwork labelled January depicts a Russian soldier with the Russian emblem fighting a caricatured figure representing Ukraine and its Western allies and LGBTQ+.

Another artwork captures a soldier with “FSB of Russia Special Purpose Centre Directorate S” written on the back. The artwork is labelled December and below it is listed some special days;

5.12 – December 5: Day of Establishment of Directorate “S” of the FSB Special Purpose Centre

9.12 – December 9: Heroes of the Fatherland Day

20.12 – December 20: Military Counterintelligence Day and

Day of Security Agency Workers of the Russian Federation.

Various reactions have met the release of the calendar, many expressing ridicule and displeasure.

2024 calendar

This follows a previous one released in 2024 featuring only Putin represented in a similar way.

The 2024 calendar depicted masked and fully special force soldiers, a field artillery piece firing into the distance, Russian veterans from the past and a Russian flag with the words, “It’s not important who is against you, it’s important who is with you’, among others.

This equally stirred up emotions with many describing the artwork as indicative of Russia’s plans towards its rivals.

Last year’s calendar retailed for 5,228 rubles ($57.92) on Ozon , the Moscow Times reported.

Who is the FSB and what is the funding for?

The FSB which is supervised by the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin is responsible for the implementation of government policy as far as issues of national security are concerned.

This means they are responsible for tackling counterterrorism, defence and protection of the state borders, protection of marine territories, natural resources, and counterintelligence.

The FSB releases the annual calendar as part of efforts to raise resources to support the Defenders of Fatherland State Fund. Putin, in 2023, signed the Executive Order On Establishing Defenders of the Fatherland State Fund to Support Participants in the Special Military Operation.

The fund seeks to support participants in the Special Military Operation to ensure they live decent lives. Monies from the fund are used to support veterans of combat operations who were involved in the special military operation and hostilities in Donbass in 2014.

It is also used to assist families of service persons who were killed in the line of duty or who died after serving the force.

Here are some of the most notable leaders who survived multiple assassination attempts:

Fidel Castro (638)

Fidel Castro, the revolutionary leader of Cuba, holds the record for the most assassination attempts. The CIA and other adversaries reportedly made 638 attempts on his life. These attempts ranged from exploding cigars to poisoned diving suits.

Zog I of Albania (55)

King Zog I, who ruled Albania from 1928 to 1939, survived 55 assassination attempts. His reign was marked by political instability and numerous enemies, both domestic and foreign, who sought to end his life.

Adolf Hitler (42)

Adolf Hitler, the dictator of Nazi Germany, faced 42 assassination attempts. The most famous attempt was the July 20 plot in 1944, where a bomb planted by Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg exploded but failed to kill Hitler.

Charles de Gaulle (31)

Charles de Gaulle, the French military leader and statesman, survived 31 assassination attempts. His leadership during World War II and his subsequent presidency made him a target for various factions, including the OAS (Organisation Armée Secrète), which opposed Algerian independence.

Yasser Arafat (13)

Yasser Arafat, the leader of the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO), faced 13 assassination attempts. His role in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict made him a target for numerous assassination plots.

Queen Victoria (8)

Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom survived 8 assassination attempts. Her long reign from 1837 to 1901 saw multiple attempts on her life, reflecting the political and social tensions of the era.

Alexander II (6)

Alexander II of Russia faced 6 assassination attempts during his reign, eventually dying from one. The final successful attempt occurred in 1881 when a member of the "People's Will" threw a bomb at his carriage in St. Petersburg.

Abraham Lincoln (5)

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, faced several threats and 5 assassination attempts during his presidency. The most infamous and successful attempt was on April 14, 1865, when John Wilkes Booth, a Confederate sympathiser, shot Lincoln at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C. Lincoln succumbed to his injuries the following morning.

Muammar Gaddafi (5)

During the Libyan Civil War, Gaddafi faced numerous threats from rebel forces. The most notable attempt was his eventual capture and killing on October 20, 2011, by National Transitional Council (NTC) forces in Sirte. He encountered 5 assassination attempts in total.

Joseph Stalin (4)

Joseph Stalin, the leader of the Soviet Union, faced everything from shooting and bombing in 4 attempts. Savely Dmitriev, a soldier, fired at a government car he believed was carrying Stalin in 1942. The vehicle contained Anastas Mikoyan, a Soviet official, who was unharmed.

Vladimir Putin (3)

Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, has survived several assassination attempts during his time in power. The president has 3 assassination attempts including a plot to kill him ahead of the 2012 elections. Two men were arrested in connection with that.

Donald Trump (2)

Donald Trump has survived 2 assassination attempts, the most recent occurring during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania in July 2024.

This follows Putin’s arrival in the Mongolian capital on September 2 on his first visit to an International Criminal Court (ICC) member since it issued a warrant for his arrest last year.

An arrest warrant was issued by the Hague-based ICC for the alleged illegal deportation of Ukrainian children since Russian troops invaded the country in 2022.

Putin’s visit to Mongolia therefore has been termed as a defiance of the court’s order.

The West and some rights groups have since called for his arrest but some Mongolians see this as uneccessary.

Reacting to this, Mongolian Economist, Altanbayar Altankhuyag who spoke to AFP said, “ICC is an international organisation. It is true that we are a member country, but it doesn’t mean we have to follow every order and arresting Putin during this visit is immoral and improper. China and Russia both are very important to us as neighbours.

, with a handful of demonstrators holding a sign demanding "get war criminal Putin out of here". Putin landed in Ulaanbaatar on Monday night at the start of a high-profile trip seen as a show of defiance against the court, Kyiv, the West and rights groups that have all called for him to be detained.

Tsevegdorj Luvsandorj, Military Veteran also said, “We Mongolians do not support the arrest of Putin, I don't support it because it's a bad move”.

What they said

"North Korea threatens peace not only on the Korean peninsula but also globally by engaging in illegal weapons trade with Russia. In order to protect our freedom and democracy and economic prosperity from these reckless elements, solidarity among countries that share values, as well as strength, is essential," Yoon said in his remarks to U.S. military leaders and troops in a Reuters report.

The Chinese Ambassador Zheng Zeguang has been summoned to the UK Foreign Office over allegations of foreign interference on UK soil. Three men have been charged with assisting the Hong Kong intelligence service. A Foreign Office official said the office has been "unequivocal in setting out that the recent pattern of behaviour directed by China against the UK including cyberattacks, reports of espionage links, and the issuing of bounties is not acceptable." The Chinese Embassy has denied the charges and accused the UK of harassment and provocation. The UK government has also accused China of cyber espionage.

COVID-19 lockdown vlogger to be freed

Zhan Zhang, a Chinese citizen journalist, has served a four-year sentence for covering the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in Wuhan. Despite expectations of her release, her whereabouts are still unknown, according to the BBC . Zhang was found guilty of "picking quarrels and provoking trouble," and her health deteriorated while in detention. Support for her release has been widespread, with concerns about her safety and continued restriction of her personal freedom. Her case is significant in shedding light on the suppression of independent journalism in China. "In China, journalists detained for their work often remain under detention or surveillance even upon completion of their prison terms," Reporters Without Borders advocacy officer Aleksandra Bielakowska said.

US hikes tariffs on goods from China

US President Joe Biden imposed new tariff hikes on goods from China, including electric vehicles, semiconductors, and other items. The goal is to create a level playing field for U.S. manufacturing in clean energy and catch up with China. "Bottom line is I want fair competition with China, not conflict," Biden said. Former President Trump criticised the move, and analysts warn it may affect inflation, USA Today reports.

First AI talks between Chinese and US envoys

US and Chinese envoys met on May 14 in Geneva to discuss national approaches to the use of artificial intelligence. The talks aim to open up dialogue between the two countries on the fast-growing technology, with a focus on potential risks and the need for safeguards, Fox News reports. The meeting is the first under an agreed-upon dialogue by Presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping in 2023.

Putin to make state visit

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit China on May 16 to meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. The two allies will discuss cooperation in various fields and international issues. China has backed Russia in the conflict in Ukraine and continues to support Russia economically. Putin’s visit comes just ahead of the inauguration of Taiwan's next president and after Xi returned from a five-day trip to Europe, including visits to Serbia and Hungary, two nations perceived to be Russian allies, AP News reports.

However, he warned that if the West supplies F-16 fighters to Ukraine, Russian forces will shoot them down.

Russia's February 2022 invasion of Ukraine triggered the most severe crisis in Russia's relations with the West since the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962.

During a speech to Russian air force pilots, Putin stated that while NATO had expanded eastward since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, Moscow had no intentions of attacking a NATO country.

"We have no aggressive intentions towards these states," Putin said, according to a Kremlin transcript released on March 28.

"The idea that we will attack some other country - Poland, the Baltic States, and the Czechs are also being scared - is complete nonsense. It's just drivel."

The Kremlin accuses the U.S. of fighting Russia by supporting Ukraine with money, weapons, and intelligence. As a result, they claim that relations with Washington are at an all-time low.

During an interview, Putin dismissed the impact of F-16 fighters that the West had pledged to send to Ukraine, stating that it wouldn't change the situation in the country.

"If they supply F-16s, and they are talking about this and are apparently training pilots, this will not change the situation on the battlefield," Putin said.

"And we will destroy the aircraft just as we destroy today's tanks, armoured vehicles and other equipment, including multiple rocket launchers."

During a recent meeting, Putin warned that F-16 fighter jets could carry nuclear weapons, and if they were deployed from airfields in third countries, they could become legitimate targets for Russia.

Putin’s comments came after Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said the aircraft would arrive in Ukraine in the coming months.

Ukraine has been engaged in a war against Russia for over two years now. They have been requesting F-16s for several months.

Belgium, Denmark, Norway, and the Netherlands have committed to donate F-16s to Ukraine, and a coalition of countries has pledged to provide comprehensive training to Ukrainian pilots in the operation of these aircraft.

Navalny, a former lawyer, aged 47, had been convicted of promoting extremism amidst other crimes and was serving a 30-year prison sentence. His untimely death occurred after he fell unconscious following a walk at the "Polar Wolf" Arctic penal colony.

Navalny emerged as a prominent opposition figure over a decade ago, speaking publicly about the widespread corruption within Putin's Russia, international media Reuters reported.

Assassination attempts against Putin’s critics have been distressingly frequent during his nearly quarter-century tenure. From poisoning by polonium-laced tea to fatal shootings, the victims and few survivors of these incidents have often blamed Russian authorities, despite Kremlin denials.

Unresolved deaths

Opposition deaths in Russia came to global attention following the poisoning of Alexander Litvinenko in 2006. Litvinenko, a former Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) member turned Putin opponent, was killed in London with polonium-210-laced tea. Before his death, he had told journalists the FSB was still operating poison laboratories dating from the Soviet era. A British inquiry into his death implicated Russian agents.

Former head of the Wagner paramilitary, Yevgeny Prigozhin died in a plane crash on August 23, 2023, two months after he led a failed mutiny in Moscow. The rebellion, triggered by disagreements about the war in Ukraine, briefly shook Putin’s authority. His death is viewed as a retaliation and a stark warning to potential challengers. Despite the fiery crash, no official investigation findings were ever disclosed.

“I have known Prigozhin for a long time, since the 1990s. He made some serious mistakes in life, but he also achieved the necessary results for himself but also for the greater good when I asked him,” Putin was quoted by The Guardian when he appeared to eulogise the warlord.

In 2018, Sergei Skripal, a former Russian double agent, and his daughter Yulia fell victim to poisoning in the UK, believed to involve the same Novichok nerve agent later used against Navalny. Putin later scorned Skripal as a traitor to his homeland.

The assassination of Boris Nemtsov in 2015, a prominent opposition figure and former deputy prime minister under Boris Yeltsin was tragic. Nemtsov was fatally shot four times just within sight of the Kremlin. A collaborative investigation by BBC and Bellingcat uncovered that he had been shadowed by Russian Federal Security Service agents in the year leading up to his murder. The investigation also revealed that some of the same agents were implicated in the poisonings of other prominent Kremlin critics.

Yuri Shchekochikhin, an investigative journalist, died of a sudden and violent illness in 2003 while probing corruption and the possible involvement of Russian security services in the 1999 apartment house bombings blamed on Chechen insurgents. Anna Politkovskaya, another journalist known for her critical reporting on Putin and Ramzan Kadyrov, a Chechen leader, was shot dead in 2006.

The likes of opposition figure Ilya Yashin, Vladimir Kara-Murza, and Igor Girkin have been given respective sentences in prison of eight-and-a-half, twenty-three, and four years.

Navalny’s aides, Liliya Chanysheva, Vadim Ostanin, and Ksenia Fadeyeva have also been sentenced to seven-and-a-half, nine, and nine-and-a-half years in prison respectively. Independent media organizations are now operating from locations such as Latvia, Turkey, and various other parts of the region.

About 95 percent of the columns in Luxor's iconic Karnak Temple's Great Hypostyle Hall have been successfully restored, reviving the original engravings and colours of ancient Egyptian inscriptions. The restoration project, led by young Egyptian restorers from the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA) in collaboration with graduates from Luxor and South Valley universities, as well as, the Luxor Restoration Institute, adheres to international conservation standards and protocols, Ahram Online reports. Secretary-General of the SCA, Mostafa Waziry, confirmed that the restoration work involved meticulous cleaning of the columns' surfaces, removing accumulated sand, dust, and bird deposits that had obscured the original engravings and colors for ages. The extensive project commenced in July 2021, beginning with the restoration of 28 columns out of the total 134 columns in the hall, each towering at a height of 20 meters. Karnak, the largest and most important religious complex in ancient Egypt, has undergone continuous development for over 1000 years.

Putin’s visit

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit Egypt to partake in the foundation-laying ceremony for the fourth reactor at the Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant. The spokesperson for the Russian presidency, Dmitry Peskov confirmed the preparations for President Putin's participation in this crucial event, emphasising the importance of the collaboration between Russia and Egypt in the field of advanced nuclear technology. Peskov, during a press conference, stated, "Our cooperation with Egyptian partners continues in various fields, and Egypt is a very important partner, including in the field of this advanced technology, which is crucial for further development in Egypt," Ahram Online quotes him. He also asserted Russia's unparalleled leadership in the global nuclear industry, providing superior, cost-effective, and high-quality services that make competition challenging for other participants in the market. The Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant, a joint venture between the Nuclear Power Plants Authority (NPPA) and Russia's Rosatom, is poised to feature four nuclear reactors, each with a capacity of 1.2 GW. Construction commenced on the first and second reactors in 2022, followed by the laying of the foundation for the third reactor in May 2023. The estimated total cost of the project stands at $30 billion.

Somalia support

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has declared Egypt's commitment to Somalia's security, emphasising the country's Arab identity and the rights accorded to it by the Arab League Charter. During a joint press conference with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud at the Federal Palace, President Sisi noted that Egypt will not allow any threats to Somalia or compromises on its security. He added that Egypt stands ready to intervene if the need arises. "Clearly, Egypt will not allow anyone to threaten Somalia or affect its security…No one will try Egypt and try to threaten its brothers, especially if its brothers ask it to intervene," he is quoted by Akhbarelyom . President Sisi expressed Egypt's clear position on the agreement between Somaliland and Ethiopia, noting that Egypt rejects the agreement. He reiterated Egypt's refusal to interfere in Somali affairs or compromise its territorial integrity.

Red Sea attacks

Egypt has increased the transit fees for the Suez Canal over the need to prioritise the foreign currency inflow , despite a decline in maritime traffic caused by Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea. Revenue from the waterway, which serves as the shortest route between Asia and Europe, has declined due to concerns about potential missile and drone attacks, leading some ships to avoid the canal, Alarabiya News reports. While traffic volumes through the Suez Canal were down by 30 percent between January 1 and January 11 compared to the previous year, the canal authority head, Osama Rabie, says Egypt has decided to move forward with the long-planned fee hike. The country aims to offset the revenue loss by generating additional income from the ships still transiting through the canal. Rabie acknowledged security concerns, stating that commercial ships might opt for longer routes to avoid entering a perceived war zone. Amid these challenges, Egypt is in discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) regarding the potential doubling of its current $3 billion rescue package. The Houthi attacks on vessels in the Red Sea have heightened pressure, with the group pledging to escalate its attacks despite airstrikes by the US and its allies.

IMF support

A team from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), led by Mission Chief for Egypt Ivanna Vladkova Hollar, is in Cairo for discussions on the first and second reviews of Egypt's reform program, supported by the IMF's Extended Fund Facility (EFF). The ongoing discussions between the IMF and Egyptian authorities focus on a set of policies to support the completion of the first and second reviews of the EFF agreement, Ahram Online reports. Analysts anticipate that Egypt's new IMF program could reach $8.0 billion due to preferential treatment, taking into account the challenging external environment, Egypt's geopolitical significance, and approximately $5.4 billion in principal due to the IMF in 2024. “Egypt’s new IMF programme could reach USD 8.0 billion due to preferential treatment. This is a result of the more difficult external environment, Egypt's geopolitical importance, and about USD5.4 billion in principal due to the IMF in 2024. We continue to expect the Egyptian pound adjustment to start in late March 2024 or early in Q2 2024, as by then inflation will be slower, around the mid-20% range. Our forecast remains that the pound will weaken to between EGP40 and EGP45 against the USD, with risks skewed towards a weaker rate of EGP50/1USD," Ramona Moubarak, the head of MENA Country Risk at Fitch Solutions, said.

Russia and North Korea past relations

Russian/Soviet relations with North Korea can be traced back to the aftermath of World War II when Japan surrendered in 1945, relinquishing its control of Korea. Efforts to create a unified Korean state failed, resulting in the establishment of Soviet-North Korea in 1948.

Throughout the 1960s, while the U.S. supported South Korea, the Soviet Union supported North Korea, but relations cooled due to political purges , concerns over ideological differences, and improved ties with China. In the early 2000s, Russian President Vladimir Putin reengaged with North Korea.

Since then, the ties have improved including the first meeting between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Putin at the  Russian Far East  in 2019.

The Ukraine war seems to have prompted a reassessment of their relationship. Signs include the Putin and Kim summit at a space centre in the Russian Far East in September 2023. There are reports that Kim has extended an invitation for Putin to visit the North Korean capital, and in October 2023, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's visit to North Korea is seen as paving the way for Putin's upcoming visit.

What does North Korea want from Russia?

North Korea’s military is  the fourth-biggest  in the world however its conventional forces are considered outdated. North Korea seeks advanced weaponry, including fighters and air defences, from Russia to modernize its military and further its goal of uniting the Korean Peninsula under the DPRK flag.

Kim also desires Russian assistance with its spy satellite which has seen some failures recently, space launch vehicle and submarine   programs in advancing its intercontinental ballistic missile capabilities.

In addition, North Korea seeks broader diplomatic acceptance of its nuclear weapons status, a recognition that Russia, as a major power, can provide.

What does Russia want from North Korea?

On the other hand, Russia aims to meet its war materiel needs for the conflict in Ukraine by seeking military support from North Korea. Moscow requires artillery shells , and North Korea, known for its significant artillery power, can potentially supply these compatible munitions.

The two countries share compatible small arms, allowing North Korea to provide ammunition for Russian assault rifles. In exchange for North Korea's military support, Russia is likely to offer aid in the development of solid-fuel missiles and hypersonic missiles.

Mutual relationship

The alliance serves the common interest of both nations in undermining American power, driven by their shared grievances against the West and a desire to overturn the international order.

If either is threatened by an external actor such as the United States, they could launch a first-use policy of nuclear weapons. In addition, the two parties are highly capable cyberwar and cyber intelligence nations which can disrupt and steal sensitive government information. 

Despite multiple UN sanctions imposed on North Korea for its weapons and ballistic missile program, Putin asserted the existence of possible military collaboration between the two nations and North Korea has pledged full support.  

Unlikely permanent alliance

The alliance between North Korea and Russia is unlikely to be tight due to North Korea's commitment to its independence especially from larger powers. Russia, mindful of North Korea's unpredictability, also seeks to avoid alienating its strategic ally, China. While the two nations may offer mutual support in the short term, a long-term alliance seems improbable, with their relationship characterized more as a strategic alignment than a formal treaty, more like a give-and-take relationship. This pragmatic bond is driven by Russia's immediate need for artillery and small arms ammunition in the Ukraine conflict.

US response

North Korea-U.S. tensions have grown increasingly hostile during the Biden administration so an alliance with Russia would mean the worse for the U.S.

The U.S. is worried that North Korea might be supplying Russia with weapons in exchange for military assistance, including advanced technologies. The Biden administration is attempting to expose the potential deal, warning North Korea that it would “ pay a price ” if it supported Russia with lethal aid.

Experts also say that what North Korea will receive from Russia in return could pose a significant threat to U.S. interests and those of its allies.

Putin argued against the Western monopoly on AI technology, deeming it "inadmissible and dangerous" and a threat to Russian culture. 

He expressed concern that many contemporary systems, rooted in Western data and designed for the Western market, reflect values and norms that Russia opposes.

Putin, known for promoting "traditional values" to counter alleged Western influence, has intensified such policies, particularly after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in March 2014. 

During his address, Putin warned that AI algorithms developed by Western platforms could lead to the digital erasure of Russia and its culture, potentially resulting in "xenophobia." 

He criticized the selective and biased results of leading search engines, stating that they often neglect Russia and its cultural contributions.

Putin pledged increased resources for the development of supercomputers and technologies to bolster national AI research efforts. 

While acknowledging the impossibility of banning AI, he stressed the importance of mandatory guarantees. Notably, he praised major Russian tech firms Yandex and Sberbank for their contributions to AI development during the conference. 

In July of the same year, the CEO of Sberbank disclosed an annual income of three billion dollars following the bank's one-billion-dollar investment in AI.