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On August 27, 2024, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi visited the Kursk nuclear power plant amid escalating tensions following Ukraine's military actions in the region. Russia accused Ukraine of attempting a drone strike on the facility, raising significant nuclear safety concerns as fighting continues nearby.
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On August 27, 2024, Russia's FSB announced criminal charges against Deutsche Welle's Nick Connolly and Ukrainian journalist Nataliya Nahorna for illegally crossing into the Kursk region. This follows previous charges against several foreign journalists amid heightened tensions over Ukraine's recent military actions in the area.
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In response to ongoing Ukrainian incursions, Russian authorities are restricting access to Kurchatov, home to the Kursk nuclear plant. Only registered residents will be allowed entry, while reinforced concrete shelters are being installed across the region to protect civilians from air attacks.
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Pavel Durov, founder and CEO of Telegram, was arrested in France on August 24, 2024, under a warrant related to insufficient moderation on the platform. The investigation focuses on allegations of criminal activities facilitated through Telegram, including drug trafficking and child exploitation. Durov's detention has raised concerns about free speech and the responsibilities of social media executives.
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On August 27, 2024, Russia intensified its aerial assault on Ukraine, launching a significant wave of drones and missiles that resulted in at least four fatalities. This follows a series of attacks targeting energy infrastructure, prompting emergency blackouts across the nation as Ukraine's air defenses struggled to intercept the onslaught.
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Ukraine has intensified its drone attacks on Russian energy infrastructure, targeting oil depots and power stations across multiple regions, including Moscow. These strikes are part of Ukraine's ongoing military strategy to disrupt Russian supply lines and retaliate against attacks on its own energy facilities. The situation remains fluid as both sides report ongoing military actions.
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As the Ukraine conflict escalates, China and Russia are deepening their partnership. President Xi Jinping is set to meet Vladimir Putin at the upcoming BRICS summit, while the U.S. considers allowing Ukraine to use long-range missiles against Russia. This shift could significantly impact the geopolitical landscape.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Mongolia on September 3, 2024, despite an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant for alleged war crimes. Mongolia, heavily reliant on Russia, did not arrest him, raising concerns about international law compliance. The visit marks a significant diplomatic moment amid ongoing tensions related to the Ukraine conflict.
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On September 10, 2024, Ukraine executed a significant drone attack on Moscow, resulting in the death of a woman and damage to residential buildings. Russian air defenses claimed to have shot down 144 drones, disrupting air traffic at major airports. This marks one of the largest drone assaults on Russian territory since the war began.
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In Russia's recent regional elections, Kremlin-approved candidates secured overwhelming victories amid claims of unfair practices. Independent observers reported numerous violations, while opposition candidates faced significant barriers, leading to a political landscape devoid of meaningful competition. The elections reflect the Kremlin's strategy to ensure loyalty among elected officials.