Sergei Ryabkov, the Deputy Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation, has been in the news due to Russia's consideration of revoking its ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) in response to the United States' failure to ratify the treaty. This move comes amidst escalating tensions between the two countries over nuclear arms control agreements. Additionally, Ryabkov oversaw a 'massive' nuclear strike drill involving ballistic and cruise missiles, which was conducted under the supervision of President Vladimir Putin.
Born in Moscow in 1960, Sergei Alexeyevich Ryabkov has had a distinguished career in Russian diplomacy. He graduated from the Moscow State Institute of International Relations in 1982 and has since held various positions within the Russian government. Ryabkov has been a key figure in Russia's foreign policy, particularly in matters related to arms control and non-proliferation. His recent involvement in nuclear strike drills and discussions surrounding the CTBT reflects his significant role in shaping Russia's stance on international security issues.
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As of April 1, 2025, US-Russia negotiations regarding a ceasefire in Ukraine remain unresolved. Russian officials express dissatisfaction with US proposals, while President Trump considers sanctions against Russia. Recent discussions in Saudi Arabia have not bridged the gap between the two nations.
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President Trump expressed anger towards Putin's remarks questioning Ukrainian President Zelensky's leadership and threatened secondary tariffs on Russian oil if peace negotiations fail. He indicated tariffs could range from 25% to 50% and could be enacted within a month if Russia does not cooperate. This follows ongoing tensions in the Ukraine conflict.
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Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed US President Trump's call for direct negotiations, labeling them as 'meaningless' amid ongoing threats of military action. Iran remains open to indirect talks but insists on equal footing. Tensions escalate as military options loom and Iran's nuclear program advances.
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Recent Russian airstrikes in Ukraine have resulted in multiple casualties, including three women wounded in Mykolaiv and fatalities in Kryvyi Rih. Ukraine's military claims to have shot down numerous drones, while both nations accuse each other of violating a US-brokered ceasefire on energy facilities. President Zelenskyy expresses disappointment over the US response to recent attacks.
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As Iran's uranium enrichment program advances, the U.S. seeks to negotiate limits on its nuclear activities. President Trump expressed skepticism about reaching an agreement, while Russia offers to assist in the negotiations, emphasizing Iran's right to peaceful nuclear energy under the Non-Proliferation Treaty.