Vladimir Putin begins 5th term as president, embarking on another 6 years as Russia's leader
Putin began his fifth term, consolidating power and vowing to defend the Russian Constitution amidst global criticism and reliance on other regimes like China and North Korea. [ more ]
The conflict in Ukraine continues with missile attacks, casualties, and severe damage in various regions, with ongoing battles and diplomatic moves. [ more ]
Russian Forces Seize Nine Villages, Amid Difficult Situation' for Ukraine
Russian forces seized nine villages in northeastern Ukraine in a recent push, marking the fastest territorial gain since the full-scale invasion in 2022. [ more ]
US sanctions hundreds of individuals, firms over Russia's war in Ukraine
The United States imposes new sanctions on over 280 entities, including Chinese and Hong Kong-based firms, aiming to weaken Russia's military capabilities. [ more ]
Ukraine war briefing: US hits China with sanctions over war supplies to Russia
US imposes sanctions on entities aiding Russia's military, accusing China and others of supplying critical inputs, disrupting Russia's war efforts. [ more ]
Ukraine war briefing: Russian attacks kill three during Orthodox Easter
Russian attacks on Orthodox Easter caused casualties in Ukraine. Zelenskiy urged prayer for unity and victory. Orthodox Church division persists amid conflict. [ more ]
Russia's May 9 parade is a significant public holiday, with President Putin emphasizing the role of the military amidst current conflicts and tensions with Western powers. [ more ]
China's Xi in Europe: At odds over trade, Ukraine war DW 05/05/2024
The European Union's relationship with China has significantly deteriorated since 2019, leading to increased tensions and reevaluation of dependencies. [ more ]
Putin to remove Sergei Shoigu as Russia's defence minister
Vladimir Putin is reshuffling top positions in the Russian government, appointing Sergei Shoigu as secretary of Russia's national security council. [ more ]
Multiple Russian attacks causing casualties in various regions in Ukraine, US accuses Russia of using banned chemical weapons and riot control agents. [ more ]
As EU election campaigns kick off in Germany, the Ukraine war, rise of far right are dominant themes
European Parliament election campaigns in Germany focus on issues like the war in Ukraine and far-right nationalist parties across the continent. [ more ]
US top diplomat Blinken visits China amid escalated tensions over Taiwan
The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in China for a three-day trip after the Senate's approval of a foreign aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. [ more ]
Meta comms chief gets six year prison sentence in Russia
Meta's communications director Andy Stone sentenced to six years in absentia in Russia for 'justifying terrorism' related to comments on Ukraine conflict. [ more ]
G7 updates: Ministers pledge to boost Ukraine's air defenses DW 04/19/2024
G7 foreign ministers discussed further sanctions on Iran following an attack on Israeli territory and emphasized support for Ukraine's air defense needs. [ more ]
Russia ramps up weapons production, using mass quantity to outgun Ukraine
Russia has ramped up military production by replenishing stocks of standard weapons and ammunition, sustaining ongoing operations in Ukraine for at least two years. [ more ]
Why are South Asians going to fight in the Russia-Ukraine war?
Young men from South Asia, predominantly from India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, are being recruited as mercenaries to fight in Ukraine by the Russians.
Despite promises of lucrative salaries, these men are facing challenges in receiving their payments and are getting killed on the front lines with limited escape routes. [ more ]
Europe must get ready for looming war, Donald Tusk warns
Europe is perceived to be entering a prewar era by Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, calling for increased defense investment.
Tusk emphasizes the urgency of defending Ukraine and the need for European self-sufficiency militarily in the face of escalating tensions with Russia. [ more ]
Putin's victory in the election was performative, with his opponents praising him before a supportive crowd in Red Square.
Citizens in Russia are publicly supportive of Putin, but concerns exist about higher taxes, repression, and military draft as he continues his invasion of Ukraine. [ more ]