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On August 28, 2024, Ukrainian drone strikes targeted oil depots in Russia's Rostov and Kirov regions, causing significant fires. This marks a notable escalation in Ukraine's military operations against Russian energy infrastructure, with previous attacks reported in the same region. No casualties were reported in the latest incidents.
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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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As of August 15, 2024, Russia's economy is grappling with significant payment issues due to Western sanctions, leading to a surge in foreign financial assets stuck overseas. The situation has intensified trade complexities with key partners like China and India, raising concerns about liquidity and economic stability.
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Ksenia Karelina, a dual US-Russian citizen, was sentenced to 12 years in prison by a Russian court for treason after donating approximately $51 to a charity supporting Ukraine. Her case highlights the severe crackdown on dissent in Russia amid the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Karelina pleaded guilty during a closed trial in Yekaterinburg.
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Russia's GDP growth slowed to 4% in Q2 2024, down from 5.4% in Q1, marking the lowest quarterly growth since early 2023. This slowdown is attributed to rising inflation, which reached 9.13% in July, and concerns over an overheating economy due to extensive military spending amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
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On August 18, 2024, Ukrainian drones targeted the Kavkaz oil storage facility in Proletarsk, Russia, igniting a significant fire. Firefighting efforts are ongoing, with over 40 firefighters injured. The incident follows a pattern of Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure amid the ongoing conflict.
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Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov showcased a Tesla Cybertruck equipped with a machine gun, claiming it would support Russian forces in Ukraine. He invited Elon Musk to visit Chechnya, praising the vehicle's capabilities. Musk denied gifting the truck, raising questions about its acquisition amid sanctions.
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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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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 18, 2024, the Shiveluch volcano in Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula erupted following a 7.0 magnitude earthquake. The eruption sent ash plumes 5 km into the sky, prompting a temporary 'code red' warning for aircraft. Scientists warn of potential aftershocks, including a possible 9.0 magnitude quake within 24 hours.
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On August 20, 2024, Ukraine's parliament passed a bill banning religious organizations linked to Russia, primarily targeting the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC). This move is seen as a response to accusations of the UOC's complicity in Russia's invasion. President Zelenskyy is expected to sign the bill into law.
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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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A Ukrainian drone attack on a military facility in the Volgograd region of Russia has sparked a significant fire, reportedly affecting an airfield housing combat aircraft. Regional officials confirmed no casualties, but the incident highlights the ongoing escalation in hostilities between Ukraine and Russia.
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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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Serbian Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandar Vulin's recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin has raised concerns in the EU regarding Serbia's aspirations for membership. The EU warns that maintaining strong ties with Russia is incompatible with Serbia's EU accession process, especially after Serbia's $3 billion arms deal with France.
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Regional elections in Russia began on September 6, 2024, amid claims of unfair practices. Opposition candidates faced significant barriers, with many barred from running. The Kremlin aims to ensure loyalty among elected officials, while independent observers report numerous violations during the voting process.