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On September 18-19, 2025, US President Donald Trump, during a UK state visit and joint press conference with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, expressed disappointment in Russian President Vladimir Putin for failing to end the Ukraine war despite their personal relationship. Trump reiterated his belief that lowering oil prices and sanctions on Russian energy buyers could pressure Putin to withdraw. Meanwhile, Putin warned that any foreign troops deployed in Ukraine during ongoing fighting would be legitimate targets, rejecting Western plans for a peacekeeping 'reassurance force' pledged by 26 countries. The UK and allies continue to support Ukraine militarily and diplomatically amid stalled peace talks.
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NATO ministers are debating lifting restrictions on military equipment to better defend its eastern border amid Russian drone incidents and airspace violations. Western aid to Ukraine has fallen sharply, while alliance members face economic challenges and differing views on military support and defense spending.
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The U.S. will stop rotating a brigade in Romania, with about 1,000 troops remaining, reflecting a strategic shift towards the Indo-Pacific. This move follows increased Russian hybrid warfare activities and NATO's heightened eastern defenses. The decision aims to balance U.S. priorities while maintaining NATO commitments.