RUSSIAN ARMS IMPORTS
EU defers ban on Russian diamonds by six months
A few other relaxations, like ring-fencing old stocks, announced by the European Commission, the executive arm of the EU, would give a further breather to the local diamantaires which constitute the world's largest importer of rough diamonds. According to a statement issued by the Commission on Monday, the ban on import of Russian diamonds would not extend to either rough or polished stones which were there in the EU and other countries (like India) before the beginning of the sanctions in March 2024.
EU sanctions target Russian gas for the first time, diplomats say
The European Union has agreed on a new sanctions package against Russia, marking its first restrictions on Russian gas since the war in Ukraine began. This 14th package bans the re-export of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) within EU waters, although imports continue. While intended to curb Russia's revenue and access to technologies, experts suggest limited impact on overall Russian LNG exports.
Putin in Vietnam, seeking to strengthen ties in Southeast Asia while Russia's isolation deepens
Putin was greeted by dignitaries upon his arrival in the Southeast Asian country as soldiers in white dress uniforms stood at attention. He arrived from North Korea, where he and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed an agreement that pledges mutual aid in the event of war.
UN will declare that both Israel and Hamas are violating children's rights in armed conflict
The U.N. secretary-general will report to the Security Council next week on Israel and Hamas violating children's rights. The report includes parties like Kachin Independence Army and Russia. Israel's inclusion will increase global attention on its actions in Gaza.
US military completes major exercise in Africa and works to deepen partnerships
The U.S. and top African allies conducted the African Lion military exercise in Morocco, addressing new challenges in volatile regions. The exercise showcased joint military operations and emphasized a holistic approach to instability issues beyond military solutions.
US to provide Ukraine with USD275mn more in military aid amid Russian advances
Amidst the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the United States is set to provide Ukraine with an additional USD 275 million in military aid, marking the fourth installment since a foreign aid bill was passed last month. The aid package includes weaponry and munitions vital for Ukraine's defence, such as rocket systems, artillery rounds, anti-tank systems, tactical vehicles, and small arms. The move underscores America's commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression, with nearly USD 1.7 billion already dispatched and more aid expected in the future.
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China sanctions defense-related US companies and executives over Russia, Taiwan
China claims the self-governed island as its own territory, to be annexed by force if necessary. It has long opposed any weapon sales by the U.S. to the island. While the U.S. does not recognize Taiwan as a country, Washington is obligated by a federal law to ensure the island's government has the means to defend itself.
Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin hold talks in Beijing to discuss future strategic ties
Russian President Vladimir Putin visited China to hold talks with China President Xi Jinping. The two leaders discussed about the Ukraine war and the increasing pressure on Beijing from the US and EU for supporting Russia. This is Putin's first foreign visit after being elected for the fifth term. Russia's large delegation, including five deputy prime ministers and other senior officials, is expected to discus trade and economic cooperation.
Why is Russia holding nuclear exercises - and what to watch for?
Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered his military to conduct drills involving the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons, citing perceived threats from France, Britain, and the United States. The drills will include missile forces, aviation, and the navy from the Southern Military District, near Ukraine, as well as Belarus. Russia linked the drills to what it called "militant statements" by Western officials. While nuclear powers routinely conduct nuclear exercises, it is rare to explicitly link such drills to ongoing conflicts.
Russian President Vladimir Putin reappoints Mikhail Mishustin as prime minister
Russian President Vladimir Putin has chosen to reappoint Mikhail Mishustin as the prime minister, awaiting approval from the lower house. Mishustin, who followed Russian law by submitting his Cabinet's resignation, is likely to receive confirmation from the proforma parliament. Mishustin, recognized for his expertise in technology and his focus on governance rather than politics, is confronted with obstacles such as the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia's conflict with Ukraine.
Russia ramps up Ukraine offensive ahead of arms boost
Russia has intensified its offensive in Donbas, making significant gains over the past month. The recent capture of Ocheretyne follows the fall of Avdiivka in February, with Russian forces advancing westwards. Ukraine's defence ministry reported 125 Russian attacks along the front line in 24 hours, with a focus on Ocheretyne and Chasiv Yar. While there have been no major breakthroughs, the advance has surprised Ukraine and led to criticism within the country. Ukraine has warned of ammunition shortages, despite Western aid approval, which could take two months to materialize.
US official urges China, Russia to declare only humans, not AI, control nuclear weapons
A senior U.S. official has called on China and Russia to join the United States and others in committing to human control over nuclear weapons, excluding artificial intelligence from decision-making processes. Paul Dean, a State Department arms control official, emphasized the importance of this norm, noting that the U.S., France, and Britain have all made such declarations. Dean urged China and Russia to follow suit, highlighting the need for responsible behavior in the context of the P5, the five permanent members of the UN Security Council.
NATO chief chides members as Ukraine's allies say slow arms deliveries have helped Russia
Outgunned, Ukraine's troops have struggled to fend off Russian advances on the battlefield. They were recently compelled to make a tactical retreat from three villages in the east, where the Kremlin's forces have been making incremental gains, Ukraine's army chief said Sunday. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed Monday its forces had also taken the village of Semenivka.
Taiwan happy with US aid package, China objects to arms sales
Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen expresses gratitude for the U.S. Congress passing a substantial foreign aid package, including arms support for Taiwan, amid China's opposition. The bills, approved by both chambers, signal continued U.S. backing for Taiwan, sparking tensions with Beijing, which demands an end to arms sales.
US aid could buy Kyiv time, but Ukraine needs many more troops
Ukrainian artillery gunners near Kupiansk are hopeful about the imminent U.S. aid package, seen as a crucial lifeline in their battle against Russian forces. The $61 billion aid is expected to replenish Ukraine's low stocks of artillery shells and air defenses. While the aid is anticipated to boost Ukraine's defense capabilities, challenges remain, including manpower shortages and questions about fortifications. The aid's impact may take time, with analysts suggesting a possible improvement in Ukraine's situation from autumn onwards.
Iran indulges in saber-rattling, how will its Soviet-era equipment match US-made war machines of Israel?
As Iran suffered decades of sanctions and embargos, its air superiority is heavily challenged. Most of its fighter jets and equipment, including US-made F-4 and F-5 fighter jets, were procured before the Islamic Revolution of 1979. Russian fighters too are of the Soviet era. How will it match US-made F-15, F-16, F-35?
Iran’s better, stealthier drones are remaking global warfare
Iran's drone technology is reshaping global conflicts, with drones based on Iranian designs being used in various countries, including Sudan, Syria, and Ukraine. These drones, like the Zagel-3 based on Iran's Ababil model, are becoming increasingly sophisticated and are used by militias and militaries worldwide. Iran's drone industry, fueled by sanctions and innovative methods to circumvent them, is a key element of its military strategy, allowing it to project power and influence far beyond its borders.
Dialogue must remain open with Russia, Italy defence minister says
Italy's defense minister emphasized the importance of keeping communication open with Russia despite its invasion of Ukraine. Guido Crosetto's comments come after French Armed Forces Minister Sebastien Lecornu's recent phone call with Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, where France condemned Russia's actions in Ukraine. Crosetto stated that while Italy and France support Ukraine, maintaining open channels of communication is crucial to achieving a just peace and stopping further Russian attacks.
Volodymyr Zelensky says 'critically important' for US to approve aid soon
Zelensky stresses urgency to US Congress for $60B Ukraine aid, crucial for economy and armed forces. Blocked by Speaker Johnson over immigration. Troops face ammo shortages; Russian forces advance in eastern Ukraine.
South Korean defence chief says North Korea has supplied 7,000 containers of munitions to Russia
North Korea has reportedly sent 7,000 containers of military equipment to Russia to support its war in Ukraine, according to South Korea's defense minister. This includes artillery shells and missiles, with transfers accelerating after a summit between Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin. In exchange, North Korea may have received aid and military assistance. The North has also increased missile tests, possibly to distract from its domestic issues and to align with Moscow over the conflict. The recent missile launches follow joint military drills between South Korea and the U.S. and come ahead of South Korea's parliamentary elections.
Amid rising defense imports, India slashes procurement from Russia to less than half, a first since 1960s
India is strategically diversifying its defense procurement strategy, reducing reliance on Russian arms amidst tensions with Pakistan and China. SIPRI reports a significant decline in India's arms imports from Russia, marking the first time since the 1960s that less than half of imports come from Russia. This shift includes increased orders from Western countries like France and the United States, strengthening strategic partnerships. The move responds to heightened tensions with Pakistan and China, emphasizing bolstering defense posture through diversified imports and indigenous development.
India remains world’s largest arms importer, Russia its top supplier
India remains the world's top arms importer, with a 4.7% increase in imports. Russia is its main supplier, while China dominates as Pakistan's main supplier. Japan and South Korea also increased their imports. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt are major importers in the Middle East. Concern over China's ambitions drives arms imports in Asia and Oceania.
Exhaustion, dwindling reserves and a commander who disappeared: How Ukraine lost Avdiivka to Russia
Within a week, Ukraine had lost Avdiivka, the city in the Donetsk region that it had been defending since long before Russia's full-scale invasion. Nearly surrounded and vastly outnumbered, the Ukrainians made the decision to withdraw and avoid the same kind of deadly siege soldiers experienced in the port city of Mariupol's Azovstal steel mill, where thousands were taken captive or killed.
Russia launches barrage of 45 drones over Ukraine as Kyiv changes more military leaders
Russian forces unleashed 45 drones over Ukraine in a prolonged assault, targeting various regions including Kyiv, according to Ukrainian officials. The Ukrainian air force reported shooting down 40 Iranian-made Shahed drones, while strikes caused injuries and damage to infrastructure. Moldovan authorities found drone debris near the border with Ukraine, underscoring the conflict's regional impact. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy continues to overhaul military leadership amid ongoing hostilities. Concerns arise over Russian forces allegedly using Starlink terminals for communication, prompting Ukraine's military intelligence to raise alarms.
India pivots away from Russian arms, but will retain strong ties
India, the world's largest arms importer, is reportedly seeking to reduce its dependence on Russia for weapons and munitions due to disruptions caused by the war in Ukraine. With Russia supplying 65% of India's weapons purchases over the last two decades, diversifying its weapons base has become a priority. India is turning towards the West, particularly the United States, to strengthen ties and contain China's influence in the Indo-Pacific region. The move reflects India's cautious balancing act to avoid pushing Russia closer to China while advancing its own strategic interests.
"Evolution important for Armed Forces" says CDS General Anil Chauhan
Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, believes that India will become a global leader in the south, pointing to the successful conduct of the G20 as evidence. He emphasized the importance of change and adaptation for survival, stating that the armed forces must also evolve. General Chauhan highlighted the challenges of unpredictability and the need to anticipate opportunities. He discussed the state of flux in the global geopolitical environment, with the old order fading and the new world order yet to stabilize. He also mentioned a more assertive China and potential alliances between Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran.
India's ONGC willing to wait to regain oil from Russian project
India's Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) is willing to wait for its share of crude from a Russian project it partly owns due to difficulties in shipping Russian oil. ONGC Videsh, the overseas investment arm of ONGC, has regained its 20% stake in the Sakhalin-1 oil and gas project and is in talks with Russian officials and shareholders to resume oil production. Western sanctions on Russian oil have made it difficult to secure insurance and shipping.
Indian oil firms explore using stranded $600 million to buy Russian oil
Indian oil companies are considering using around $600 million of their dividend income from Russia to buy oil from the country. Due to tough Western sanctions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the companies have been unable to repatriate their dividend income. One option being explored is loaning the money to entities buying oil from Russia, who would then repay the loan in India. Indian state oil firms have invested $5.46 billion in buying stakes in four different assets in Russia, making Russia the top crude oil supplier to India.
US military deals not enough to wean India off Russian arms yet
India is the world's biggest arms importer but almost all of its major weapons purchases now include provisions for joint manufacture or technology transfer, irrespective of which country it is dealing with.
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