Russia in the news: Moscow’s war in Ukraine and global sanctions push energy politics and diplomacy to a boil. Population ~144M; huge landmass, 11 time zones.
The 61st Venice Biennale has opened with protests, strikes and the international jury's resignation over the organisers' decision to allow Russia and Israel to participate. Dozens of pavilions have closed temporarily, the jury has quit, and visitors will vote for awards after organisers cancelled jury prizes.
Since October, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has pushed a rapid reorientation of Japan's postwar posture: her government has eased lethal-weapons export rules, the ruling party has opened formal talks on revising the pacifist constitution, and Tokyo has expanded defence ties and arms sales with partners including Australia and potential buyers such as the Philippines and Poland.
Since late April 2026, Russia and Ukraine have been exchanging sustained drone and missile attacks that have killed civilians, damaged ports, hospitals and housing, and struck energy infrastructure on both sides. Overnight into 5 May, strikes have hit Ukrainian energy facilities and cities and Ukrainian forces have struck major Russian oil and industrial sites.
A European study has quantified how inequality increases temperature-related deaths. If Europe’s regions reached the lowest level of material deprivation, heat and cold-related mortality could fall by up to 30%, a major policy argument for targeted relief and poverty reduction.
Since late April, al‑Qaida‑linked JNIM and Tuareg separatists have launched coordinated attacks across Mali, seizing Kidal and other northern bases, killing Defence Minister Sadio Camara and setting up checkpoints around Bamako. The junta under Assimi Goita has reassigned defence responsibilities and opened probes into alleged military complicity while Russia's Africa Corps has been pushed back in the north.
U.S. and Israeli intelligence has reported that Iran’s estimated time to produce a nuclear weapon has remained broadly unchanged since last summer despite Operation Midnight Hammer and two months of strikes that began on Feb. 28. Officials say recent attacks have focused on conventional targets; removing Iran’s highly enriched uranium (HEU) stockpile will be required to change the estimate.
Sweden's coast guard has detained the Jin Hui on suspicion of flying a forged flag and seaworthiness concerns. The vessel, flagged Syrian and linked to Russia's sanctions evasion network, remains under investigation as authorities coordinate with international partners.
Mali’s military leadership has appointed General Oumar Diarra as minister delegate for defence, as attacks at the end of April have intensified security concerns. The assaults targeted the junta’s forces, killed the defence minister, and signalled joint moves by al Qaeda-linked and Tuareg separatist groups, while Moscow’s backing remains a factor.
The US has announced a redeployment of 5,000 troops from Germany, a move that has followed public tensions between President Trump and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over the Iran conflict. Berlin has dispatched naval vessels toward the Strait of Hormuz and is defending its limited role; US lawmakers and analysts are warning the withdrawal will complicate NATO posture and logistics across Europe.
The Venice Biennale is reopening Russia’s pavilion for the first time since 2022 amid protests and a mass jury resignation over entries from states facing ICC charges. The international jury has resigned, and the festival is facing scrutiny from the EU and Italy as debates over artistic neutrality and politics intensify.
Canadian prime minister Mark Carney has attended the European Political Community summit in Yerevan as the first non‑European leader invited, argued that the postwar rules‑based order has ruptured and said it "will be rebuilt out of Europe," and has committed Canada to a $270m contribution for NATO‑coordinated U.S. weaponry deliveries to Ukraine.
France 24 reports that Beijing rejects simplistic depictions as a “puppet master,” instead pursuing mercantilist and predatory motives while balancing Washington and Tehran. The interview highlights China’s energy interests and its role in the Persian Gulf crisis, with warnings against Western overreaction to Iran’s maritime pressure. The New Arab notes Pakistan’s mediation of the US–Iran ceasefire, signaling a broader shift in South Asia–Middle East security, despite ongoing tensions and new defence partnerships. Together, the pieces describe a tense, evolving regional landscape with multiple actors pursuing strategic lines.
Ukrainian strikes have targeted oil hubs and port infrastructure across Russia and occupied territories, intersecting with renewed drone warfare and Russian counter-strikes. Officials report multiple incidents including fires at Primorsk and Tuapse, with Ukrainian officials claiming long-range capabilities are expanding.
Keir Starmer is attending the European Political Community summit in Armenia and has signalled Britain’s interest in joining the EU’s €90 billion loan for Ukraine. The move follows Hungary’s veto lift and comes as Tory and Labour lines clash over Brexit terms and future economic ties. Downing Street says negotiations are ongoing, with Britain seeking deeper defence and economic links with Brussels.
Across multiple fronts, stories show how people are being drawn into or coerced into military roles tied to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with international recruits, conscription schemes, and battlefield deployments shaping the conflict.
Austria has expelled three Russian diplomats, bringing the total to 14 since 2020, after a foreign ministry briefing and ORF reporting that antennas on Moscow’s Vienna premises intercepted data from international organisations. Vienna vows a broader crackdown on espionage and tighter laws, while Russia denounces the move and pledges retaliation.
Moscow has been experiencing mobile internet outages and SMS restrictions amid security measures ahead of the Victory Day parade. The Kremlin argues outages are necessary to counter Ukrainian drone threats, while telecoms providers warn users to rely on Wi‑Fi and 4G. The parade itself has been scaled back for security reasons.
Ukraine has declared a ceasefire between May 5-6, while Russia says a ceasefire will run May 8-9 for Victory Day. Both sides warn of retaliation if the other side disrupts celebrations; Moscow is scaling back its parade and Ukraine is preparing for possible drone activity.
Both Russia and Ukraine have announced ceasefires for May 5-6 or May 8-9 around Victory Day celebrations, prompting questions about timing, coordination and enforcement amid ongoing fighting.
The AP reports Trump has said tariffs on EU cars and trucks will rise to 25% this week, while Macron urges stability. EU-US trade talks are set to resume in Paris as the war in the Middle East continues to shape policy, and France pushes Armenia toward Europe amid regional tensions.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has said the war in Ukraine "is coming to an end" and has offered to meet Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a third country once a final peace treaty is agreed. The comments came as Russia and Ukraine have observed a short ceasefire and exchanged prisoners around Victory Day, while the Moscow parade has been scaled down over security concerns.
The EU has signed a connectivity partnership with Armenia to strengthen transport, energy and digital links, as Yerevan pursues closer ties with Brussels while maintaining EEU membership. The move follows European Political Community discussions and comes amid Armenian calls for diversification away from Russia.
The United Nations Security Council is considering a US- and Gulf-backed draft resolution that would require Iran to halt attacks on shipping and to cooperate with a humanitarian corridor through the Strait of Hormuz. The measure, drafted under Chapter VII, could impose sanctions and potentially enable force if Tehran fails to comply. Talks are underway at the UN as a four-week truce strains amid renewed tensions.
The conflict has escalated around commemorations with Ukraine and Russia each reporting attacks. Ukraine has proposed an open-ended ceasefire while Moscow has warned of a large-scale response if disruptions occur to Victory Day events. Civilian casualties are reported in several cities as the period of 8-9 May unfolds.
The Venice Biennale has been marked by ongoing protests and geopolitical controversy. Pussy Riot and Femen have disrupted the Russian pavilion, while EU funding concerns and sanctions scrutiny persist. The event, with 99 participating nations, continues despite tensions surrounding Russia’s return and Israel’s status, and organizers have postponed the awards ceremony.
IPPR modelling warns the Iran conflict could push inflation to 5.8%, raising debt costs; it calls for a temporary a32,000 energy price cap, a 10p fuel duty cut and a 20mph urban/60mph motorway speed limit plan, paired with demand-reduction measures.
Tashiev has been charged in Kyrgyzstan in a move that could destabilize the country’s power-sharing arrangement with Japarov. The charges carry up to 20 years in prison and the trial is to be held behind closed doors with reporting banned.
Latvian officials have reported two drones crashing on Latvian soil, one sparking a brief fire at an oil storage facility. Latvia’s defense minister says the drones were likely Ukrainian and headed toward Russian targets. Russia has accused Ukraine of using Latvian airspace to attack St. Petersburg, a claim Latvia denies as it summons Russia’s chargé d’affaires.
Moscow has issued a formal notice urging evacuations for Kyiv-based staff and residents amid warnings of possible Russian strikes on May 9, amid rival ceasefire proposals and Kyiv’s response. The Kremlin aims to shield Victory Day celebrations while Kyiv vows to respond to any aggression.
The IOC has allowed Belarusian athletes to compete under their own flag and anthem, while maintaining concerns about Russia after allegations involving Russia’s anti-doping chief Veronika Loginova trigger a WADA probe. The World Anti-Doping Agency has said it is reviewing the latest claims and will act if verified. Russia’s sports ministry says the ROC remains suspended and demands clear timelines for reinstatement.
Ukraine has gained about 116 square kilometres of front-line territory in several sectors, while Russian advances have slowed to a crawl in early 2026. The Institute for the Study of War notes Kyiv’s counter-offensives and Moscow’s use of infiltration tactics to project gains that are not fully controlled.
A unilateral ceasefire announced by Russia for Friday and Saturday has quickly unraveled, with Moscow and Kyiv trading blame for ongoing fighting. Ukraine reports continued assaults and new long-range strikes, while Russia warns of retaliation as Victory Day approaches and with major oil facilities targeted. The Kremlin’s celebration plans appear scaled back amid security concerns.
Trump has announced a three-day ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war, with a prisoner swap of 1,000 prisoners from each side, following dialogues with Putin and Zelensky. The accord is described as mediated by the US, with further talks ongoing to end the conflict.
The Guardian, France 24 and Reuters report that Donald Trump has posted that there will be a three-day ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war from 9 to 11 May, with a 1,000-prisoner swap from each side; both Moscow and Kyiv accuse the other of ceasefire violations. Zelenskyy has confirmed the prisoner exchange.
The U.N. Security Council is considering a U.S.-backed Bahrain-led resolution on Iran's attacks and mine actions in the Strait of Hormuz. China and Russia are likely to veto, while talks of a temporary halt in hostilities surface amid ongoing diplomacy.
Russia has staged the most reduced Victory Day parade in years on Red Square amid security concerns and Ukraine-related threats. The event features no tanks; instead, screens display missiles, drones and advanced weapons as President Putin and veterans attend. A ceasefire accord is described, with 1,000 prisoners to be exchanged.
Vladimir Putin has overseen a scaled-down Victory Day parade in Moscow under heavy security, has said "the matter is coming to an end," and has offered to meet Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a third country only after a final peace treaty is agreed. A US-brokered three-day ceasefire and a 1,000-for-1,000 prisoner swap have been announced for the holiday.
The Venice Biennale has faced protests and walkouts during the preview phase as pavilions from several countries close or open intermittently amid calls to bar Israel over the Gaza war. The international jury has resigned over participation decisions.
European leaders are pushing back on Trump’s urging to withdraw from NATO while calling for stronger European defense. Germany faces pressure as France promotes national defense autonomy, and a recent survey shows waning trust in U.S. leadership among European publics. The debate centers on how Europe should defend itself with or without full U.S. backing.
Putin has said the Ukraine war is coming to an end and is open to European security talks, as Russia hosted a markedly smaller Victory Day parade. He has named Gerhard Schröder as a preferred intermediary and signalled readiness for talks once conditions are met. Zelenskyi has issued a decree allowing the Moscow parade and has stressed Europe's unity with Ukraine.
Coordinated strikes by Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) have killed dozens and sparked a new security crisis in central Mali. The government says it is intensifying operations while vowing dialogue remains off the table.
A U.S.-brokered three-day ceasefire has been breaking down: both Ukraine and Russia have reported drone, missile and artillery strikes across multiple regions since May 9–11, with civilian casualties in Kherson, Zaporizhia, Kharkiv, Rivne, Dnipropetrovsk and elsewhere. Each side is accusing the other of violations while exchanges of large drone attacks and air-defence activity have continued.
EU foreign ministers are weighing direct talks with Russia over Ukraine, insisting any broker be credible and independent of Moscow. Putin has floated former German chancellor Schröder as a potential EU envoy, prompting caution from Brussels. Ukraine says it could coordinate with Europe to apply more pressure on Moscow, while EU leaders debate the path to peace.
The European Union has imposed sanctions on 16 officials and seven centres linked to the alleged abduction and forced transfer of Ukrainian children. The measures target those involved in indoctrination, assimilation and militarised education, with over 130 entities under asset freezes or travel bans. The move follows reports of about 20,500 children deported since 2022.
Leaders and leaders-in-waiting are signaling a possible end to the Ukraine war, while Russia resumes strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure. A US-brokered ceasefire has expired as both sides press their campaigns. Zelenskiy calls for punishment of Moscow for civilian strikes, and Kyiv remains wary of any peace talk that concessionally favors Russia.
World Rugby’s investigation has handed long bans to six Georgian players and a medical official, with more sanctions for the Georgian Rugby Union as part of what it calls the sport’s most extensive anti-doping probe. No evidence has surfaced of urine substitution to mask PED use, but there are credible findings of cannabis and tramadol concealment.
The ceasefire has expired as Russia has launched more than 200 drones overnight, hitting energy facilities and civilian targets in multiple Ukrainian regions. Ukrainian officials report several deaths and injuries, including a drone attack in Kryvyi Rih that killed two and injured four, among them a baby. Zelenskyy asserts Ukraine’s long-range operations and allied talks on missile defence.
Ukraine faces a sustained daytime barrage as hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles hit Kyiv and other regions. Kyiv's air defences are under renewed strain while rescue services search for survivors and authorities warn of disrupted infrastructure.
Ukraine has targeted oil facilities in southern Russia and a refinery northeast of Moscow, with fires reported at several sites. Russia says drones have been intercepted and debris has caused damage in multiple regions. The strikes aim to cut Moscow’s war funding.
BRICS foreign ministers in New Delhi have highlighted reforms to global governance while wrestling with divisions over the Israel–Hamas war, Iran and Gulf dynamics. India has chaired the talks, with Iran and the UAE on opposing sides of the conflict. A joint statement on Gaza remains elusive as the bloc seeks a unified stance.