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As of early September 2025, Russian forces continue incremental advances in eastern Ukraine, notably near Dobropillia and Donetsk, pressing Ukrainian defenses along a 1,000-kilometer front. Ukraine has reclaimed some villages and launched drone strikes on Russian territory, including a fire at a nuclear plant with no casualties. Peace talks remain stalled after Russia ruled out an immediate Putin-Zelensky summit despite ongoing prisoner exchanges and diplomatic efforts led by the US and European allies.
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Ukrainian President Zelensky has issued warnings of intensified Russian missile and drone attacks amid ongoing diplomatic efforts. Zelensky emphasizes Ukraine's readiness to respond and seeks security guarantees from Western allies. The situation remains tense as Russia continues targeting Ukrainian infrastructure and Ukraine prepares for potential peace negotiations.
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The EU is considering a proposal to redirect approximately €180 billion in Russian assets held at Euroclear to fund loans for Ukraine. This move aims to leverage frozen Russian assets to support Kyiv's war effort, amid ongoing debates over legality and political implications. The plan is still under discussion as of late September 2025.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin announced Russia's willingness to extend the New START treaty for one year if the US agrees, citing concerns over strategic stability. The treaty, set to expire in February 2026, is the last major arms control agreement between the two nations. The move follows Russia's suspension of the treaty in 2023 amid tensions over Ukraine and US support for Kyiv.
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Ukrainian President Zelensky has indicated he is willing to forgo a second term if Ukraine finishes the war with Russia. He discussed potential elections during a ceasefire and emphasized his focus on ending the conflict, amid ongoing negotiations and international support. The election scheduled for 2024 remains postponed under martial law.
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On October 10, 2025, North Korea marked the 80th anniversary of its ruling Workers' Party with a military parade in Pyongyang, unveiling the Hwasong-20, a new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) described as its "most powerful nuclear strategic weapon." The missile reportedly has a 15,000 km range, capable of striking the U.S. mainland, and may carry multiple warheads. Kim Jong Un emphasized military strength and called for an "invincible" army, while also engaging in diplomatic meetings with Chinese and Russian officials amid ongoing regional tensions.
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The U.S. is considering supplying Ukraine with Tomahawk cruise missiles and sharing intelligence to target Russian infrastructure. Meanwhile, Russia has announced its largest conscription since 2016, amid increased drone activity and airspace violations in Europe. The conflict continues to escalate with significant military and diplomatic developments today.
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Chinese Premier Li Qiang visited North Korea to attend the 80th anniversary of the Workers' Party, marking the most senior Chinese official visit since 2019. The trip included high-level meetings, a military parade, and reaffirmed Beijing's commitment to strategic cooperation with Pyongyang amid regional tensions.
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Vladimir Kramnik publicly accused Daniel Naroditsky of cheating in online chess, amid a bitter feud that contributed to Naroditsky's sudden death at 29. The International Chess Federation is reviewing Kramnik's statements for potential misconduct, as the chess community condemns his conduct and questions the impact of the allegations.
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As of December 5, 2025, the EU's plan to fund Ukraine's 2026-27 budget using a €90 billion reparations loan backed by frozen Russian assets faces strong opposition from Belgium. Belgium fears legal and financial risks, demanding guarantees from other EU states before supporting the plan. EU leaders aim to resolve the impasse at the December 18 summit amid ongoing Russian threats and stalled peace talks.