Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that the US plan for resolving the conflict in Ukraine is an updated version of a proposal developed following his meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska.
Ukraine’s rapid western shift, booming growth in Lviv, and strengthened European integration are undermining Vladimir Putin’s long-standing efforts to keep the country within Russia’s sphere.
Russia and North Korea are forging closer ties as both nations seek mutual support to survive Western sanctions, exchanging political solidarity for vital resources.
Russia has tested its nuclear-powered underwater drone, “Poseidon,” days after launching another advanced missile, escalating tensions with Washington.
Russia publicly brushed off Washington’s coordinated sanctions on its two largest oil companies, but analysts believe concern is growing behind the Kremlin’s defiance.
Trump imposed sweeping sanctions on Russia’s largest oil companies in a move aimed at cutting off funds for Moscow’s war in Ukraine.
Putin is reportedly using a symbolic mega-project to sway Trump against arming Ukraine with long-range missiles.
Trump said China’s recent move to impose export controls on rare-earth elements was “a real surprise” and warned he may respond with “a massive increase of tariffs.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin criticised the Nobel Committee after Donald Trump was overlooked for the 2025 Peace Prize, saying the award “lost credibility” and praising Trump for solving “complex problems” that had persisted for decades.
Russia plans to raise VAT from 20 to 22 per cent in 2026 to fund its war on Ukraine, prioritizing defence over civilian spending.