Russia’s RDIF chief Kirill Dmitriev in the news as Moscow leans on SWF to back its war aims; bio: Russian businessman, CEO of RDIF (>$10b sovereign fund).
As of March 20, 2026, reports reveal Russia is aiding Iran with drone technology and intelligence sharing amid ongoing US-Israeli strikes on Tehran. The US has rejected Russian proposals linking Ukraine peace talks to Iran and downplays the impact of Russian-Iranian cooperation. Meanwhile, diplomatic talks continue with Russia denying intelligence sharing with Iran, despite Western intelligence assessments.
On March 12, 2026, the US Treasury issued a 30-day waiver allowing countries to buy Russian oil already at sea to stabilize global energy markets disrupted by the Iran conflict. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized the measure's limited benefit to Russia, applying only to oil in transit. This follows a similar waiver for India amid soaring oil prices and geopolitical tensions.
A recent attack in Ukraine damaged infrastructure and wounded civilians, amid ongoing conflict. The strikes follow US and Israeli actions in Iran, which have impacted global energy markets. The US has temporarily eased sanctions on Russian oil, sparking international debate about its implications for peace and the Ukraine conflict.
Russia has published a list of European companies allegedly producing drones for Ukraine and warned these could become targets for Russian strikes. The warning follows recent European agreements to increase drone supplies to Ukraine. Ukrainian strikes have damaged Russian oil infrastructure, while Ukraine accuses Russia of aiding Iran's attacks on US forces in the Middle East.
Russia and Ukraine have agreed to a 32-hour ceasefire from 4 p.m. on April 11 to midnight on April 12 for Orthodox Easter. Both sides have confirmed compliance despite ongoing tensions and recent attacks. The truce coincides with prisoner exchanges and diplomatic talks, though broader peace negotiations remain stalled amid continued conflict.
Peter Magyar has won Hungary's election, replacing Viktor Orbán. The new government is expected to pursue a more pragmatic approach to Russia, with officials indicating a willingness to maintain energy ties and engage in dialogue, while distancing from Orbán's pro-Kremlin stance. Moscow is cautious but open to cooperation.