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In a significant shift, Putin publicly admits Russia's air defense missiles detonated near a crashed Azerbaijani plane in Kazakhstan, killing 38. The incident, linked to Ukrainian drone activity, has strained Russia-Azerbaijan relations. Putin promises compensation and an objective investigation, marking a rare acknowledgment of responsibility.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin commended Donald Trump’s peace efforts, despite not receiving a Nobel, and expressed hope for extending the U.S.-Russia nuclear arms treaty. He discussed Ukraine, Gaza ceasefire, and regional security during visits to Tajikistan, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy amid ongoing tensions.
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Recent articles highlight the US's growing vulnerability due to its dependence on China for rare earth minerals. China’s export controls and dominance in processing threaten US supply chains, impacting clean energy and defense sectors. The US is attempting to diversify but faces significant hurdles.
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As of November 2025, China has suspended key export restrictions on rare earth metals and critical minerals for one year following a trade truce with the US. The move includes suspending controls on gallium, germanium, and antimony exports to North America and issuing general licenses for approved US civilian firms. This aims to stabilize global supply chains amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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The US is increasing investments in rare earth mineral companies amid ongoing tensions with China over export restrictions. Central Asian nations are key to diversifying supply chains, with recent diplomatic efforts highlighting US interest in regional cooperation and resource development. President Trump’s administration emphasizes strengthening critical mineral and military capabilities.
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President Trump hosted leaders from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan at the White House, aiming to strengthen ties and secure critical minerals. The region remains under pressure from Russia and China, with the US seeking strategic footholds amid regional competition.
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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.