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Russia's SVR alleged that Britain and France are covertly supplying Ukraine with nuclear weapon components, aiming to influence peace talks. The claims lack evidence and have been denied by Kyiv and Western officials. Moscow warns of potential violations of international law amid ongoing Ukraine negotiations.
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On November 28, 2025, German authorities arrested Ukrainian Serhii Kuznietsov, suspected of coordinating the 2022 Baltic Sea pipeline explosions that disrupted Russian gas supplies to Europe. Kuznietsov denies involvement, claiming he was serving in Ukraine's army. Meanwhile, Poland closed Russia's last consulate in Gdansk after sabotage on its railway infrastructure linked to Russian intelligence and Ukrainian collaborators.
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On Nov 28-29, 2025, Ukrainian naval drones attacked two Russian-sanctioned oil tankers, Kairos and Virat, in Turkey's exclusive economic zone in the Black Sea. Both vessels, part of Russia's 'shadow fleet' used to evade sanctions, were damaged; Kairos caught fire while Virat sustained minor damage. Turkey condemned the attacks and is engaging with parties to prevent escalation. Separately, UK officials reported increased Russian naval activity near British waters, including laser targeting of RAF pilots by the Russian spy ship Yantar.
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As of December 2025, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that the New Safe Confinement (NSC) steel shield at Chernobyl lost its primary safety functions after a Russian drone strike in February 2025. While load-bearing structures remain intact, comprehensive repairs are essential to prevent further degradation and ensure long-term nuclear safety amid ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict.
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Russia faces a shortfall of at least 2.3 million workers, worsened by the Ukraine war. With Central Asian workers declining, Moscow is increasingly recruiting Indian workers, with permits surging from 5,000 in 2021 to nearly 72,000 last year, reflecting stronger ties and economic shifts.
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A UN report shows Jakarta has become the world's most populous city with 42 million residents, surpassing Tokyo. The shift results from new methodology and rapid urban growth in Asia, with Dhaka projected to become the largest city by 2050. Climate and migration are key drivers.
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A Russian court sentenced eight individuals to life imprisonment for the October 2022 bombing of the Crimean Bridge. The attack, claimed by Ukraine, caused significant damage and casualties, prompting Russia to retaliate with strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure. The defendants deny involvement, asserting they were unaware of explosives in their cargo.
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Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán visited Moscow to discuss energy security amid ongoing reliance on Russian oil and gas. The trip follows Hungary's exemption from US sanctions and highlights its opposition to EU efforts to reduce dependence on Russia. Orbán also expressed hope for Budapest to host Ukraine peace talks.
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Tajikistan faces border attacks from Afghanistan, killing five Chinese workers. Tajik authorities discuss deploying Russian forces for border patrol, amid ongoing tensions with Taliban Afghanistan. China urges citizens to evacuate the border area as Tajikistan tightens security.
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On December 4-5, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited India for the 23rd Russia-India Summit, hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit focused on deepening defense, energy, and economic ties despite US sanctions targeting India's purchases of Russian oil. The leaders agreed on a $100 billion trade target by 2030 and discussed military hardware deliveries, labor mobility, and cooperation amid ongoing Ukraine war tensions.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin accused European nations of obstructing peace efforts in Ukraine, claiming they lack a peace agenda and are 'on the side of war.' US negotiators are in Moscow discussing a draft plan to end the conflict, amid ongoing diplomatic tensions and military developments.
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Recent assassinations in Spain and Ukraine reveal ongoing covert operations linked to Russia. A Russian helicopter pilot was killed in Spain after disillusionment with Moscow’s Ukraine invasion, while a U.S-born journalist in Ukraine was tortured and murdered by Russian soldiers. These cases underscore Russia’s continued use of covert violence abroad.
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U.S. negotiators Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff met with Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss peace efforts in Ukraine. The talks follow a series of US proposals and Putin's warnings to Europe. Ukrainian President Zelensky emphasizes the need for a definitive end to the war, amid ongoing diplomatic efforts and Russian military advances.
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Ukrainian President Zelenskyy reports progress in peace negotiations with US and European officials in Berlin, focusing on security guarantees and territorial issues. US President Trump and European leaders support efforts, but key disagreements remain, especially over territory and Russia's demands. The talks aim for a potential peace deal by Christmas.
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In late 2025, the US under President Trump declared Europe an adversary in its National Security Strategy, citing immigration policies and demographic shifts as threats to Western civilization. The US supports far-right European parties, opposes EU digital regulations, and urges Europe to reduce reliance on adversarial powers. Germany and Europe are called to assume greater self-defense amid waning US commitment, straining transatlantic relations.
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French authorities are investigating a cyber intrusion on a ferry docked in Sète, with suspects including Latvian and Bulgarian crew members. French officials suggest possible foreign interference, potentially linked to Russia, amid broader concerns of hybrid warfare tactics against Europe.
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Denmark reports Moscow orchestrated cyberattacks in 2024, including on water utilities and election websites, as part of Russia's broader hybrid war against the West. Incidents are linked to Russian proxies, aiming to destabilize support for Ukraine and exploit security vulnerabilities across Europe. The campaign has intensified since 2022.
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The EU has indefinitely frozen €210 billion of Russian Central Bank assets to support Ukraine, amid legal disputes with Russia over the assets' use. Belgium seeks guarantees against retaliation, complicating plans to use the funds for Ukraine's aid. Russia has filed lawsuits to recover the assets, raising legal and diplomatic tensions.
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On December 19, 2025, after marathon talks in Brussels, EU leaders agreed on a €90 billion loan to support Ukraine’s defense and financial needs through 2026-27. The loan is backed by the EU budget, not frozen Russian assets, which remain immobilized amid legal and political disputes. Ukraine welcomes the deal as vital for resilience amid ongoing peace talks and war threats.
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As of December 22, 2025, Ukraine has intensified drone attacks targeting Russian maritime and energy infrastructure, including the Okhotnik patrol ship, offshore drilling platforms in the Caspian Sea, and the Qendil tanker in the Mediterranean. These strikes aim to disrupt Russia's oil exports and military funding amid ongoing conflict and Western sanctions.
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On December 24-25, 2025, Ukraine withdrew its forces from the eastern town of Siversk in Donetsk to preserve soldiers' lives amid Russian advances. Russia claims control of Siversk, a strategic point near key Ukrainian strongholds. Fighting continues nearby, with Ukraine maintaining fire control. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Zelensky unveiled a new 20-point peace plan including NATO-style guarantees, but Russia is unlikely to accept it. Pope Leo called for a Christmas truce, lamenting Russia's refusal.
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Guinea, Central African Republic, and Benin held elections amid political unrest, civil conflicts, and regional tensions. Incumbents Mamady Doumbouya, Faustin Touadera, and Patrice Talon are expected to secure re-election, despite opposition boycotts, security concerns, and allegations of unfair practices. Results are pending.
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On December 22, 2025, Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov, head of Russia's Operational Training Directorate, died from injuries sustained in a car bomb explosion in southern Moscow. The blast occurred near a police station in the same neighborhood where two traffic officers were killed by a bomb on December 24. Russian investigators are exploring multiple leads, including Ukrainian intelligence involvement. Sarvarov is the third senior Russian general killed in targeted attacks since December 2024 amid ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
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A senior Russian general, Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov, was killed in a car bomb in southern Moscow. Russian investigators suspect Ukrainian special forces were behind the attack, which occurred amid ongoing US-Russia talks on Ukraine. Kyiv has not commented on the incident.
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As of early January 2026, Ukraine faces intense Russian drone and missile attacks targeting energy infrastructure and civilian areas, causing casualties and widespread power outages. Amid ongoing violence, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and U.S. President Trump are engaged in peace negotiations, with a 20-point peace framework reportedly 90% complete, focusing on security guarantees and territorial disputes, including Donbas and nuclear plant control.
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Russia's hybrid warfare campaigns in Europe continue with incidents of sabotage, assassination attempts, and influence operations, amid ongoing diplomatic negotiations over detained French citizen Laurent Vinatier. Moscow has made a proposal to France regarding Vinatier's case, but details remain undisclosed. The situation reflects broader tensions over Ukraine and Western-Russian relations.
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On December 24, 2025, two Moscow traffic police officers and a suspicious individual were killed in an explosion triggered as the officers approached near their service vehicle. The blast occurred close to where Russian Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov was assassinated by a car bomb earlier that week. Russian authorities are investigating the incident as an attempted killing and explosives trafficking.
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Ukraine's Zelensky proposes a 20-point peace plan, including a Donbas free economic zone and security guarantees, amid ongoing conflict and stalled negotiations with Russia. The plan faces Russian skepticism, with recent attacks and territorial disputes complicating prospects for peace. The story highlights diplomatic efforts and battlefield developments as of December 25, 2025.
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Ukraine has secured some concessions in a US-led draft peace plan to end the Russian invasion, including removal of immediate withdrawal demands and recognition of current contact lines. Key issues like territory and demilitarized zones remain unresolved, with Moscow unlikely to accept the terms. The plan involves freezing front lines and establishing zones, but significant questions persist.
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Central African Republic is holding its first elections in decades, with President Touadéra seeking re-election amid ongoing security concerns and increased Russian influence, including Wagner mercenaries and resource deals. The vote tests stability and international relations in a fragile state.
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Moscow-installed authorities held a gala to reopen the Mariupol Drama Theatre, rebuilt after its destruction in a Russian airstrike in 2022. The event featured Russian performers and officials, amid accusations that the reconstruction conceals war crimes and promotes Russification. Critics say the reopening is a political statement in the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
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Russia reports increased drone activity over Moscow, with 57 drones destroyed on Sunday, amid ongoing Ukraine strikes. Russia claims new missile capabilities threaten Europe, while Ukraine continues targeting Russian infrastructure. The conflict's toll on Russian military losses hits record highs, with ongoing tensions and diplomatic efforts.
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On New Year's Eve 2025, Sydney held a minute of silence and a menorah projection on the Harbour Bridge to honor 15 victims of a December 14 mass shooting at a Hanukkah event. Despite heightened security with thousands of armed police, celebrations continued citywide, reflecting resilience amid fears of rising antisemitism and terrorism in Australia.
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Since late December 2025, Iran has faced its largest protests in three years, sparked by economic collapse and currency devaluation. Clashes between demonstrators and security forces have resulted in at least 490 deaths and over 10,600 arrests. US President Donald Trump has threatened intervention if protesters are violently suppressed, while Iranian officials condemn foreign interference and prepare for potential military responses.
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U.S. President Trump dismissed reports of a drone attack near Putin’s residence, claiming US officials found no evidence Ukraine targeted it. Russia and Ukraine continue exchanges of attacks amid ongoing peace negotiations, with Ukraine suffering casualties and infrastructure damage in recent strikes.
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Aldrich Ames, a former CIA counterintelligence chief, died at age 84. He was convicted of spying for Moscow, receiving $2.5 million from 1985 to 1994, and was responsible for exposing Russian agents, leading to Western agent executions. He pleaded guilty and served life in prison.
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A bipartisan US bill backed by President Trump aims to impose up to 500% tariffs on countries, including India, China, and Brazil, that continue to buy Russian energy despite sanctions. Russia is reorganising its supply chain to bypass restrictions, with India increasing Russian oil imports amid discounts. The legislation seeks to cut Moscow's funding for Ukraine's war.
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European leaders are increasingly discussing the possibility of re-engaging with Russia over Ukraine, amid mixed signals from Moscow and concerns about sidelining Europe in peace negotiations. Some leaders advocate dialogue, while others remain cautious, emphasizing the need for pressure on Moscow. The debate reflects shifting attitudes and strategic uncertainties.
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Over the past week, Ukraine has intensified its military actions, including strikes on Russian targets, while Russia has responded with missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities. Recent use of hypersonic missiles and targeted infrastructure damage highlight ongoing escalation in the conflict, with civilian casualties reported on both sides.
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Russia has expelled a British diplomat, Gareth Samuel Davies, accusing him of espionage. The UK has not responded publicly. The move follows a series of reciprocal expulsions amid tense relations since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The diplomat must leave within two weeks, escalating diplomatic tensions.
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Russia's Central Bank is suing the EU over the freezing of $232 billion of its assets, claiming illegal seizure and seeking compensation. The case is being heard behind closed doors in Moscow, amid ongoing tensions over Ukraine aid and asset management disputes.
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President Trump has announced a broadened international 'Board of Peace' initiative, inviting dozens of nations to mediate conflicts globally, starting with Gaza. The plan faces skepticism from European allies and concerns over its scope and impact on the UN. Key leaders, including Netanyahu, have agreed to join, while others remain cautious.
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On January 22, 2026, former President Donald Trump officially launched the 'Board of Peace' at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Initially aimed at overseeing Gaza's reconstruction post-conflict, the board's remit has expanded to address global conflicts. Trump will chair the board for life, with membership requiring a $1 billion fee for permanent status. The initiative has drawn mixed international reactions, with some countries joining and others, including key European allies, declining over concerns it may undermine the United Nations.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin is studying Donald Trump’s proposed 'Board of Peace,' which aims to oversee Gaza ceasefire and reconstruction efforts. Putin has discussed using frozen Russian assets to fund the initiative and is consulting with strategic partners before deciding on participation amid ongoing Ukraine conflict tensions.
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Between late January and early February 2026, Russia intensified drone and missile attacks across Ukraine, targeting energy infrastructure and civilian areas in Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhia, Odesa, and Kyiv. These strikes caused multiple casualties and widespread damage, coinciding with US-brokered peace talks in Abu Dhabi. Ukraine condemned the attacks as war crimes, while Russia claimed military targets. Negotiations remain deadlocked over territorial disputes.
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Recent investigations reveal Bangladeshi migrant workers in Russia were deceived with false promises of civilian jobs, only to be coerced into combat roles in Ukraine. Many faced threats, violence, and imprisonment, with some escaping after months of forced service. The story highlights migrant risks amid regional conflicts. Today’s date: Tue, 03 Feb 2026.
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Russia's military presence in Syria remains focused on two Mediterranean bases, despite recent withdrawals from Kurdish-held northeast Syria. Moscow seeks to secure its influence as Syrian rebel leader Ahmed al-Sharaa visits Moscow to discuss the future of Russian bases and bilateral relations, amid shifting regional alliances and US involvement.
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As of February 2026, SpaceX and Ukraine have implemented a whitelist system requiring registration of Starlink terminals to block unauthorized Russian military use. This move has disrupted Russian drone operations and frontline communications, significantly weakening Moscow's ability to coordinate attacks. Ukrainian forces have regained territory, leveraging the disruption of Russian communications.
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On February 5, 2026, the New START treaty between the US and Russia expired, ending over 50 years of nuclear arms limits between the two powers. Russia offered a one-year extension, but the US declined, seeking a new treaty including China, which refuses to join. Both sides remain committed to restraint, but the absence of formal limits raises fears of a renewed nuclear arms race.
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Russia launched extensive missile and drone strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, causing widespread blackouts amid harsh winter conditions. Meanwhile, a senior Russian military officer was wounded in an assassination attempt linked to Ukraine, with a suspect detained in Dubai and extradited to Russia. US efforts to broker peace continue despite stalled negotiations.