#russia

Drones, robots & precision fire: How Ukraine is defying Russian juggernaut, reinventing modern warfare Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the country has faced an adversary with overwhelming advantages in manpower, ammunition, industrial capacity, and air power. Conventional military logic would suggest Moscow’s larger size and resources should have secured a decisive victory. Yet Ukraine has endured, striking deep behind Russian lines, challenging Moscow’s naval presence in the Black Sea, and reclaiming some occupied territory. A major factor in this resilience has been Ukraine’s rapid transformation into one of the world’s most innovative wartime defense economies. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently highlighted this shift in a speech praising Ukraine’s defense sector, revealing the country’s ability to mass-produce millions of First Person View (FPV) drones, artillery shells, interceptor systems, and long-range missiles. He cited weapons like Flamingo, Ruta, Peklo, Neptune, Palianytsia, and Vilkha as evidence that Ukraine’s arms industry has moved beyond emergency improvisation into sustained wartime production. Zelenskyy also emphasized Ukraine’s expanding long-range strike capabilities, noting that Kyiv’s drones now target locations up to 1,750 kilometers from the border. He highlighted defense systems such as Sichen, Liutyi, Morok, Bars, Obriy, and FP as critical additions to this arsenal. These weapons have enabled Kyiv to extend the conflict deep behind enemy lines, forcing Russia to divert resources to protect airfields, refineries, depots, and infrastructure far from active combat zones.#russia #ukraine #president_volodymyr_zelenskyy #flamingo #ruta

Ukraine's Robot Brigade Captures Russian Positions for First Time in History Kiev: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on April 14, 2026, that his country’s military had achieved a historic breakthrough by capturing a Russian-held position using exclusively unmanned systems, drones, and ground-based robotic platforms. This marked the first time in modern warfare that a territory was seized without human soldiers engaging in direct combat. Zelenskyy emphasized that the operation was conducted entirely through robotic and drone technology, with no Ukrainian troops involved, and that the captured area was fully secured without casualties. The Ukrainian military claimed that the operation involved a coordinated effort by its "Drone Brigade," which deployed advanced robotic systems and aerial drones to neutralize Russian defenses. According to Zelenskyy, the Russian forces stationed at the target location surrendered without resistance, citing the overwhelming technological superiority of the Ukrainian unmanned systems. The operation reportedly lasted several days, during which the brigade executed 22,000 missions, significantly reducing the risk of human casualties. Zelenskyy highlighted that these missions had saved thousands of lives, though he did not specify the exact location of the operation. The success of the drone brigade has been hailed as a turning point in the war, demonstrating the growing role of autonomous technology in modern warfare. Zelenskyy shared a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "The future of warfare has already arrived on the battlefield—and Ukraine is making it a reality. These are our ground-based robotic systems. For the first time in the history of this war, a Russian position was fully captured using unmanned platforms—ground systems and drones.#russia #ukraine #germany #volodymyr_zelenskyy #drone_brigade

Ukrainian Forces Shot Down Shahed Drones in Middle East During Iran War, Zelenskyy Says Ukrainian military personnel have shot down Iranian-designed Shahed drones in multiple Middle Eastern countries during the Iran war, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated, framing the operations as part of a broader effort to assist regional partners in countering the same weapons used by Russia in Ukraine. Zelenskyy made his first public acknowledgment of these activities on Wednesday, with the remarks embargoed until Friday. He emphasized that Ukrainian forces were actively involved in defensive operations abroad, utilizing domestically produced interceptor drones that had proven effective against Iranian-designed Shahed drones, which Russia has deployed in Ukraine. “This was not about a training mission or exercises, but about support in building a modern air defense system that can actually work,” Zelenskyy said. Ukraine’s participation in these operations occurred before the tentative ceasefire in the Middle East, brokered among Iran, the United States, and Israel, was finalized this week. While Zelenskyy did not specify the countries involved, he noted that Ukrainian personnel operated across several nations to strengthen their air defense systems. He previously mentioned that 228 Ukrainian experts had been deployed to the region. In exchange for this military assistance, Ukraine is receiving weapons to protect its energy infrastructure, along with oil, diesel, and in some cases, financial arrangements, Zelenskyy said. He argued that these agreements would enhance Ukraine’s energy stability and position Kyiv to formalize and expand its role as a defense exporter. “We are helping strengthen their security in exchange for contributions to our country’s resilience,” he stated. “This is far more than simply receiving money.#iran #middle_east #russia #shahed_drones #volodymyr_zelenskyy

Global LNG Market Shifts as Russia Offers 40% Discount on Sanctioned Supplies Russia is leveraging the global natural gas shortage to expand its influence in South Asia by offering liquefied natural gas (LNG) previously sanctioned by the United States at a 40% discount. The move aims to attract countries like India and Bangladesh, which have faced supply disruptions due to geopolitical tensions. Reports indicate that Russia is selling its LNG through intermediaries based in China and Russia, while also using forged documents to mimic the pricing structure of gas sourced from Oman or Nigeria. This strategy has raised concerns about potential violations of international trade laws. The disruption of the Hormuz Strait and attacks on key LNG terminals in Qatar have exacerbated global supply issues, reducing LNG availability by approximately 20% and driving up prices. India and Bangladesh, which previously relied heavily on Qatari LNG, are now scrambling to secure alternative supplies. Bangladesh, for instance, sourced 60% of its LNG needs from Qatar last year but now faces higher costs as it shifts to spot market purchases. This has led to increased expenses for both nations, with India and Bangladesh also curtailing domestic gas supplies to the fertilizer sector due to reduced availability. India has traditionally been cautious about importing sanctioned Russian LNG, with officials previously stating they would avoid purchases from the country’s blacklisted projects. However, Russia is actively expanding its Arctic LNG 2 and Portovaya projects to increase exports, despite U.S. sanctions and geopolitical resistance. While China remains the primary buyer of sanctioned Russian LNG, Russia is seeking to broaden its market by targeting South Asian nations.#india #russia #qatar #bangladesh #hormuz_strait

UNSC Veto Blocks Hormuz Opening Vote as Russia and China Reject Resolution The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) faced a critical moment on April 7, 2026, as a resolution aimed at urging Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz was blocked by Russia and China, who exercised their veto power. The vote, held just hours before U.S. President Donald Trump’s deadline for Iran to unblock the strategic waterway, marked the end of a final attempt to de-escalate tensions. The resolution, proposed by Bahrain and supported by 11 council members, sought to encourage nations to ensure safe navigation through the strait, but its rejection left the region in limbo. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global energy trade, has been a flashpoint since February 28, when U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets in multiple countries, including Gulf neighbors, triggered retaliatory attacks by Iran. The conflict has disrupted oil shipments, driving energy prices to record highs. Trump, who has threatened to target Iran’s infrastructure if it does not comply with demands, set a deadline for Iran to reopen the strait by 8 p.m. U.S. time, adding urgency to the UNSC vote. Bahrain’s resolution, which initially called for “all necessary measures” to secure the strait, including military action, was revised to exclude aggressive measures. The final version emphasized “defensive actions” and cooperation among nations to ensure safe passage. However, Russia and China, both permanent UNSC members with veto rights, rejected the proposal, citing concerns over the use of force. Their opposition effectively stalled the resolution, leaving no binding mechanism to compel Iran to unblock the strait. The vote highlighted the deep divisions within the UNSC. While 11 members supported the resolution, Colombia and Pakistan abstained.#iran #china #strait_of_hormuz #russia #united_nations_security_council

Russia To Ban Gasoline Exports From April 1 To Prioritise Domestic Supply The Russian government announced on Friday that it will implement a ban on gasoline exports starting April 1, 2026, to prioritize domestic supply and stabilize fuel prices. The decision comes amid global market instability caused by the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which has led to significant fluctuations in oil and petroleum product prices. The announcement was made following a meeting chaired by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, who emphasized the need to address the challenges posed by the international crisis. Novak highlighted that while demand for Russian energy abroad remains strong, the current geopolitical tensions have disrupted global energy markets. The Russian government stated that the ban aims to ensure that domestic fuel prices do not exceed forecasted levels, a key objective set by President Vladimir Putin. According to the Ministry of Energy, oil refining rates have remained consistent with March 2025 levels, ensuring a stable supply of petroleum products. Industry companies have confirmed they hold sufficient reserves of gasoline and diesel, along with high refinery capacity utilization, to meet internal demand. The Ministry of Energy reported that domestic fuel markets are well-positioned to handle the ban, with refineries operating at full capacity and adequate stockpiles of essential fuels. Novak instructed the Ministry to draft a resolution formalizing the export ban, which will take effect on April 1, 2026. The measure is intended to protect domestic consumers from price volatility and ensure reliable fuel supply for local markets.#russia #vladimir_putin #west_asia #alexander_novak #ministry_of_energy

Russia’s military aid to Iran remains a subject of debate, with U.S. President Donald Trump describing it as “a bit” while Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called Moscow’s cooperation “good.” The extent of Russia’s support, however, is complex and multifaceted, involving intelligence sharing, satellite data, and advanced weaponry. Moscow’s assistance to Iran includes critical intelligence on U.S. military assets, likely sourced from its Liana spy satellite system, designed to monitor U.S. carrier strike groups and naval forces. Experts suggest Russia shares data from its satellites with Iran, though the effectiveness of this aid is questioned. Meanwhile, Russia has also contributed to Iran’s space program, including the development of the Khayyam satellite, launched in 2022 from Baikonur. This satellite, with a one-meter resolution, provides Iran with orbital imaging capabilities, though its utility in military operations remains unclear. Beyond intelligence, Russia has supplied Iran with advanced weaponry, including air defense systems, fighter jets, helicopters, and sniper rifles, worth billions of dollars. Since the U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran began in February 2026, Russia has reportedly provided Iran with “intelligence, data, experts, and components” for its military operations. However, the two nations lack a formal mutual defense agreement, and Russia has not directly intervened in the conflict. Instead, their relationship is characterized by mutual aid, with Iran supplying Moscow with ammunition, artillery, and short-range missiles in return. Iran’s use of Russian-supplied Shahed drones has become a focal point of the conflict. These drones, initially developed by Iran but modernized by Russia, have been used in attacks on U.S. and Israeli targets.#iran #donald_trump #strait_of_hormuz #russia #abbas_araghchi

Russia launches over 1,000 drones at Ukraine, killing 8 people KYIV — Ukrainian officials reported that Russian forces launched more than 1,000 drones over the past two days, striking cities and killing at least eight people while wounding nearly 100. The attacks targeted areas in western Ukraine, far from the front lines, underscoring the ongoing nature of the conflict. The strikes have drawn attention to the fact that Moscow’s military campaign persists despite global focus on the Middle East crisis. Ukrainian authorities confirmed the casualties but provided no further details on the extent of damage or specific locations hit. The use of drones in such numbers highlights the evolving tactics in the war, with Moscow increasingly relying on unmanned systems to conduct strikes. Analysts noted that the attacks may aim to disrupt civilian infrastructure or test the effectiveness of Ukraine’s defenses. The incident has sparked renewed calls for international support, as Ukrainian officials emphasize the need for sustained assistance to counter the escalating threat.#middle_east #russia #ukraine #moscow #kyiv

Tanker Loaded With Russian Oil Hit In Underwater Attack In Black Sea: Turkey A Turkish-operated oil tanker was attacked in the Black Sea early Thursday, according to Turkey’s transport minister, Abdulkadir Uraloglu. The incident occurred after midnight when the vessel, which had recently loaded crude oil from Russia, experienced an explosion in its engine room. Officials stated the attack targeted the engine room specifically, with Uraloglu suggesting it was carried out by an unmanned surface vehicle rather than a drone. The minister confirmed the ship, flagged under Sierra Leone, reported the explosion to emergency services and that Turkish authorities had dispatched units to the scene for monitoring. The attack took place less than 30 kilometers from the Bosphorus Strait, though Uraloglu did not confirm whether it occurred within Turkish territorial waters. He described the explosion as an “externally caused” event aimed at disabling the ship. The minister emphasized that the attack was not attributed to a drone but instead to a surface vessel operating at water level. This incident adds to a series of security challenges Turkey has faced in the Black Sea region, particularly linked to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Turkey, which borders Ukraine and annexed Crimea, has maintained diplomatic ties with both Kyiv and Moscow since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan previously warned against the Black Sea becoming a “zone of confrontation” between the warring nations. The recent attack underscores the ongoing tensions in the region, with Turkey positioned as a mediator and a key player in the conflict’s geopolitical dynamics. The incident highlights the vulnerability of maritime routes in the Black Sea, a critical area for energy transportation and military operations.#turkey #russia #ukraine #abdukadir_uraloglu #black_sea

Kim Jong Un Uses Iran War to Justify North Korea’s Nuclear Stance North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong Un, has framed the United States’ conflict with Iran as evidence that his country’s decision to retain nuclear weapons was correct. In a speech to North Korea’s Supreme People’s Assembly, published on Tuesday, Kim criticized Washington for “acts of state-sponsored terrorism and aggression,” though he did not explicitly name Iran. He argued that the current geopolitical situation validates North Korea’s refusal to abandon its nuclear arsenal, calling the country’s nuclear status “irreversible.” The timing of Kim’s remarks coincides with renewed speculation about potential U.S.-North Korea diplomatic engagement. President Donald Trump, who previously claimed Iran posed an “imminent” threat to the United States, has signaled openness to resuming talks with Kim. However, Kim’s speech suggests any future negotiations would diverge from past summits focused on denuclearization. He has made it clear that North Korea will only engage in dialogue if the U.S. acknowledges its nuclear status and ceases what Pyongyang describes as its “hostile policy.” North Korea’s leadership has long viewed nuclear weapons as a deterrent against U.S. military dominance. The ongoing Iran conflict reinforces this belief, with Kim emphasizing that nations without nuclear capabilities are vulnerable to U.S. pressure. Meanwhile, North Korea’s military advancements continue to escalate. The country has recently conducted high-profile weapons tests, including cruise missile launches from a new warship and rocket barrages described by state media as nuclear-capable.#iran #united_states #russia #north_korea #kim_jong_un

Russia launches rare daytime aerial assault as new offensive begins Russia conducted one of its largest aerial attacks since the war began, launching 948 drones in a single day as it deployed troops and equipment to the front lines, signaling the start of a new offensive. The strikes, which occurred on Tuesday, targeted western Ukraine and resulted in casualties, including two deaths in the city of Ivano-Frankivsk and one in the Vinnytsia region. Footage shared online showed a drone crashing into an old building near a church in Lviv’s historic center, damaging part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounding the 17th-century St. Andrew’s Church. Lviv’s Governor Maksym Kozytskyi confirmed the damage, while Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko condemned the attack, calling it an assault on a “crowded city center in broad daylight.” The attacks followed an overnight bombardment across 11 regions, killing five people, including two in Poltava and one each in Zaporizhia, Kherson, and Kharkiv. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged allies to supply Kyiv with air defense systems, warning that the country faces a missile shortage as the U.S. focuses on its involvement in the conflict with Iran. He emphasized the importance of fulfilling agreements on air defense, stating that such systems are critical for countering Russian ballistic missiles. Zelenskyy also noted that talks between Ukraine and the U.S., held in Florida, had not yet produced a security guarantees agreement. He had previously claimed the document, which would ensure U.S. and allied support in case of a future Russian attack, was “100 percent ready” for signing. However, he acknowledged that the geopolitical situation has grown more complex due to the war on Iran, stressing the need to develop guarantees that could help end the war.#russia #ukraine #lviv #ivanofrankivsk #vinnytsia

Russia launches 948 drones at Ukraine in largest attack over 24-hour period Russia has conducted its most significant aerial assault on Ukraine in a single day since the war began, deploying 948 drones across multiple cities. Ukraine’s Air Force reported 556 drones were launched between 09:00 local time (07:00 GMT) on Tuesday, marking an unusual daytime attack that resulted in at least three deaths and numerous injuries. The strikes targeted both urban and critical infrastructure, with damage reported in several regions. In Lviv, a 16th-century Bernardine monastery, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, sustained damage. Local officials shared images of a residential building on fire adjacent to the monastery, with separate footage showing a drone flying low and striking the structure. Lviv regional head Maksym Kozytskyi stated 32 people were injured in the attack. The city’s neighboring Ivano-Frankivsk region also suffered, with a maternity hospital hit and two fatalities reported, including a six-year-old child. Ternopil, another western Ukrainian city, faced multiple direct hits, though no casualties were confirmed. In Vinnytsia, one person was killed and 13 injured, according to regional head Nataliya Zabolotna. The attacks followed an overnight Russian assault that left five people dead, targeting 11 Ukrainian regions. Ukraine’s Air Force confirmed it shot down most of the drones and missiles but acknowledged multiple direct hits across the country. Yurii Ihnat, a Ukrainian Air Force spokesman, noted a “large number of drones” entered Ukrainian airspace from the north, moving in columns. He described the daytime strikes as covering a broader geographic area than nighttime attacks, calling it one of the largest 24-hour assaults.#russia #ukraine #lviv #maksym_kozytskyi #ivanofrankivsk

New rules on the moon: Artemis Accords still have questions Five years after the Artemis Accords were signed, critical guidelines for lunar operations remain undefined. Ongoing discussions focus on protocols for emergency responses and the establishment of safety zones around lunar activities. These unresolved issues are gaining urgency as NASA prepares to launch its Artemis 2 mission, which will mark the first crewed return to the lunar surface in over five decades. Proposals include designating safety zones around lunar rovers, habitation modules, or mining sites. However, the exact dimensions and boundaries of these zones are still under debate. Additionally, there is no consensus on how to handle emergencies, such as equipment failures or medical incidents, during lunar missions. The lack of clarity raises concerns about the safety of astronauts and the coordination of international efforts. The Artemis Accords, a framework for space exploration collaboration, have not yet addressed these specifics. While the agreement emphasizes peaceful use of the moon and transparency among participating nations, the absence of detailed rules could hinder the success of future missions. The U.S. space agency is working with international partners to finalize these guidelines, but progress remains slow. Meanwhile, China and Russia are advancing their own lunar initiatives. The International Lunar Research Station, a joint project between the two countries, aims to establish a permanent presence on the moon. This development underscores the growing competition in space exploration and highlights the need for clear international regulations. The unresolved questions about safety and emergency protocols reflect broader challenges in managing lunar activities.#nasa #china #russia #artemis_accords #international_lunar_research_station

India Deserves Deepest Respect: Russia Praises Delhi’s Strategic Autonomy, Confirms PM Modi's Visit Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has publicly acknowledged India’s strategic autonomy, describing it as deserving of “deepest respect.” In a statement reflecting shifting global power dynamics, Lavrov highlighted India’s role as a stabilizing force with independent decision-making capabilities. He characterized India as a major political and economic center, emphasizing its influence as a distinct civilization shaping global discourse. The remarks underscored the significance of India’s growing influence, positioning it as a key player in shaping the future international order. Lavrov also expressed eagerness to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Russia, stressing the importance of high-level dialogue in strengthening bilateral relations. The comments reflect a broader acknowledgment of India’s rise as a nation capable of balancing global partnerships while safeguarding its national interests. In a world marked by fragmented alliances and geopolitical tensions, India’s approach is increasingly viewed as both unique and impactful, reinforcing its status as a critical actor in international affairs.#delhi #india #russia #prime_minister_modi #sergey_lavrov

War on Iran: Can fuel rationing, remote work, short sleeves ease oil woes? The escalating conflict between the US and Israel against Iran has disrupted global energy markets, prompting nations to scramble for fuel, implement conservation measures, and reevaluate their reliance on Middle Eastern oil exports. Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route between the Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, has exacerbated the crisis. This strait supplies roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil, and its closure has led to a sharp rise in crude oil prices, surpassing $100 per barrel. Countries like Bangladesh and Thailand are now seeking solutions to mitigate the impact of the crisis, including diversifying suppliers and enforcing fuel rationing. Analysts warn that while short-term fixes such as redirecting oil from Russia or exploring alternative shipping routes may provide temporary relief, they cannot guarantee long-term stability. India, for instance, has resumed purchasing Russian oil after a temporary halt due to US sanctions. The US granted India a 30-day waiver to import stranded Russian shipments, aiming to stabilize global supply and curb price spikes. However, experts caution that logistical and refinery constraints limit the speed at which Russian oil can be redirected. The discounted rates Russia offered India from 2022 to 2025 are no longer guaranteed, as demand for Russian crude has surged due to the Hormuz blockade. China, another major buyer, could further strain the market by competing for the same oil reserves, potentially narrowing discounts and pushing prices closer to global benchmarks. Iraq, a key oil exporter, is also grappling with the crisis. The country has reported a significant decline in crude sales, as shipments are stranded at sea.#us #iran #india #strait_of_hormuz #russia

Russia Shoots Down 16 Ukrainian Drones Targeting Moscow Russian officials confirmed on Saturday that military forces had intercepted and destroyed 16 Ukrainian drones en route to attack Moscow. The announcement came as part of ongoing efforts to counter escalating drone strikes against the capital. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin shared updates on social media, stating that emergency responders had arrived at locations where drone debris landed. However, he did not specify whether any damage or casualties occurred on the ground. According to the Moskva 24 TV channel, three of Moscow’s four major airports—Vnukovo, Domodedovo, and Zhukovsky—were temporarily closed for several hours due to the drone strikes. This disruption affected air traffic and highlighted the city’s vulnerability to such attacks. Officials emphasized that the closures were a precautionary measure to ensure safety and manage the situation effectively. In preparation for potential drone threats, Moscow and its surrounding regions have implemented measures to limit mobile internet access in certain areas. Residents have been advised to use offline applications to maintain critical functions during disruptions. Maxim Korkin, a regional official overseeing transport and information technology, warned citizens about possible temporary issues with mobile communications and internet connectivity. Korkin also noted that efforts are underway to ensure access to essential regional services, such as healthcare and emergency systems, in case of prolonged internet restrictions. These preparations reflect broader concerns about the increasing use of drones in military operations and the need for robust defensive strategies. The incident underscores the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, with both sides continuing to escalate their efforts in the conflict.#russia #ukraine #moscow #sergei_sobyanin #moskva_24

Russia reacts to US oil waiver amid Iran war tensions Russia criticized the United States for temporarily allowing the sale of Russian crude oil already in transit, calling the move a recognition of the critical role Russian oil plays in global markets. The decision came as energy prices surged amid escalating conflicts involving Iran, Israel, and the U.S. Russia’s economic envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, stated on Telegram that the U.S. action effectively acknowledged the importance of Russian oil supplies to global stability. The U.S. Treasury Department issued a notice permitting transactions involving Russian crude oil and petroleum products that had been loaded onto vessels by March 12. This temporary authorization, valid until April 11, followed warnings from Iran that it could target regional energy infrastructure if attacked. Iranian military officials vowed to “set the region’s oil and gas on fire” with any strike on Iran’s energy facilities or ports. The waiver coincided with a sharp rise in oil prices. Brent crude surged 9.2% to $100.46 per barrel, its highest level since August 2022, while West Texas Intermediate climbed 9.7% to $95.73. Market volatility intensified as U.S.-led strikes on Iran disrupted trade through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil shipping route. Investors grew concerned over prolonged regional conflicts, with U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliatory actions further destabilizing the market. President Donald Trump’s emphasis on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons over controlling oil prices added to the uncertainty. Meanwhile, the U.S. military faced additional challenges, including the crash of a refueling aircraft in Iraq and reports of Iranian missile attacks on U.S. and Israeli targets.#iran #united_states #brent_crude #strait_of_hormuz #russia

West Asia tension: India reviews situation with Russia, EU India’s external affairs minister, S Jaishankar, engaged in diplomatic discussions with Russia’s foreign minister, Sergey Lavrov, and the European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, amid escalating tensions in West Asia. The talks, held via teleconference, focused on assessing the conflict’s impact and coordinating efforts to de-escalate the situation. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation and shared India’s perspectives on diplomatic initiatives aimed at resolving the crisis. A Russian readout of the conversation highlighted the ministers’ agreement on accelerating the normalization of the Iran situation and supporting the role of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and the BRICS nations in fostering a sustainable resolution. The discussions underscored the need to balance the legitimate interests of all parties involved, with a focus on creating conditions for peace. Jaishankar also addressed India’s broader strategic partnerships, reaffirming commitments to regional stability. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated assurances about the safety of Indian citizens in the region, criticizing opposition leaders for stoking fear and panic over the conflict. Modi’s remarks came amid growing concerns about the potential impact of the war on India’s energy security, particularly regarding the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil supplies. India’s diplomatic engagement with Russia and the EU reflects its strategic balancing act in the region. The country has been actively involved in mediating talks between Iran and its neighbors, leveraging its ties with both Moscow and Brussels.#india #russia #s_jaishankar #eu #kaja_kallas

Israel-Iran war LIVE: Some countries contacted Tehran for ceasefire, Iran's Deputy FM says; Trump says operations 'very complete' U.S. President Donald Trump indicated on March 9, 2026, that military operations in Iran could be nearing an end, describing the conflict as “very complete” and progressing ahead of schedule, according to a CBS News report. The statement came as Iran’s Revolutionary Guards announced plans to escalate their missile attacks, vowing to increase the force and frequency of strikes while expanding the range of their weapons. State media cited commander Majid Mousavi, who stated that all missiles launched from now on would carry warheads weighing at least one ton. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin shared proposals to end the war in West Asia “quickly” during a phone call with Trump, according to the Kremlin. The leaders also discussed the situation in Ukraine and Venezuela, with Putin emphasizing the impact of global oil market dynamics. France’s President Emmanuel Macron announced preparations for a “defensive” mission to secure the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil trade. Oil prices surged past $114 per barrel, the highest level since 2022, as tensions escalated and supply risks loomed. Iran’s Foreign Ministry dismissed calls for ceasefire talks, stating that negotiations were impossible while the country faced attacks. The Revolutionary Guards also warned that the Strait of Hormuz remained unsafe as long as hostilities continued. In a separate development, the Israeli military claimed to have struck six military airfields in Iran, targeting infrastructure and aircraft used by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The strikes reportedly included attacks on Tehran’s Mehrabad International Airport, where 16 Revolutionary Guards aircraft were destroyed.#iran #trump #strait_of_hormuz #russia #iran_revolutionary_guards

Where are Iran’s allies? Why Moscow, Beijing are keeping their distance Russia and China, Iran’s two most influential diplomatic partners, have condemned the US-Israeli attack on Iran, which has killed over 1,000 people, as a violation of international law. President Vladimir Putin called the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei a “cynical violation of all norms of human morals,” while China’s Foreign Affairs Minister Wang Yi urged all sides to avoid further escalation. Despite their strong rhetoric, neither Russia nor China has indicated a willingness to provide military support to Iran. The two nations jointly requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council, reflecting their close relationship with Iran. However, their responses have been limited to diplomatic condemnation rather than direct military intervention. Russia and China have signed bilateral agreements and expanded cooperation through joint naval drills, projecting a united front against what they describe as a US-led international order. Yet, their actions suggest a preference for diplomatic engagement over military involvement. Russia-Iran relations are defined by a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty signed in January 2025, covering trade, military cooperation, and other areas. The agreement includes joint military exercises in the Indian Ocean, most recently held in late February. However, the treaty does not include a mutual defense clause, meaning Russia is not obligated to intervene in conflicts involving Iran. Analysts note that Russia’s focus remains on managing its own conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine, and has previously avoided direct military support for other nations facing US actions, such as Venezuela. China’s relationship with Iran is similarly pragmatic.#iran #china #russia #united_nations_security_council #belts_and_roads_initiative