RUSSIAN LAW
Julian Assange's actions put people in danger: US State Department after whistleblower walks free
Julian Assange, WikiLeaks founder, arrived in Australia after signing a plea deal with the US, ending a 14-year legal case. The US State Department criticized Assange for endangering lives, including diplomats and allies, by releasing unredacted classified documents. They also accused him of acting as a conduit for Russian intelligence during the US presidential elections. Assange was welcomed in Canberra by supporters and family. His plea deal was formalized on the Northern Mariana Islands to facilitate his travel back to Australia.
India rejects comments by UN's top human rights official on foreign influence laws
India rejects UN High Commissioner Volker Turk's comments on foreign influence laws, emphasizing transparency and accountability for all. Ambassador Arindam Bagchi disagrees with Turk's remarks in the Global Update 56th session of the Human Rights Council.
Cybersecurity firm Kaspersky denies it's a hazard after the US Commerce Dept bans its software
The Moscow-based company - whose CEO Eugene Kaspersky is Russian - said in a statement that the Commerce Department's decision would not affect its ability to sell and promote its cyber security products and training in the U.S. Kaspersky said the government had based its decision on the "geopolitical climate and theoretical concerns" rather than independently verifying if there was a risk.
Men claiming to be ISIS supporters take hostages in Russian detention centre, Baza reports
Five men claiming allegiance to ISIS took hostages at a detention center in Russia's Rostov region, as reported by the Baza Telegram channel with ties to Russian law enforcement. The Federal Penitentiary Service confirmed the incident, stating the facility is operating normally with law enforcement responding.
World leaders join Ukraine summit in test of Kyiv's diplomatic clout
More than 90 countries will take part, but China's absence in particular has dimmed hopes the summit would show Russia as globally isolated, while recent military reverses have put Kyiv on the back foot. The war in Gaza between Israel and Hamas has also diverted the world's attention from Ukraine.
World leaders to meet at Swiss resort on possible Ukraine peace roadmap, Russia is notably absent
Leaders from Ecuador, Ivory Coast, Kenya, and Somalia, alongside numerous Western heads of state and government, are set to convene at a conference this weekend to discuss the initial steps toward peace in Ukraine, with Russia notably absent. Hosted by Swiss officials, the conference will see over 50 heads of state and government, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as well as 100 delegations from European bodies and the United Nations.
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G7 leaders agree to lend Ukraine billions backed by Russia's frozen assets. Here's how it will work
The Group of Seven leaders have reached a historic agreement to provide a $50 billion loan to support Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. This loan will be backed by interest earned on profits from Russia's frozen central bank assets, with details currently being finalized at the G7 summit in Italy. President Joe Biden hailed the agreement as a crucial step in providing sustainable support for Ukraine, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the international assistance.
Dollar or other currencies? How the US is daring the world to find a dollar alternative
The United States is challenging its own foundations as the world's reserve currency with attacks on the legal system following Donald Trump's conviction. Despite growing consternation, no credible alternative has emerged. The dollar's dominance stems from U.S. democratic principles, but threats loom as sanctions and political turmoil test its credibility.
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.
NATO chief dismisses Russian warnings after arms restrictions lifted
NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Friday dismissed warnings by Russian President Vladimir Putin that allowing Ukraine to use Western weapons to strike inside Russian territory might lead to an escalation. Speaking on the sidelines of a NATO foreign ministers' meeting in Prague, Stoltenberg said the alliance had heard such warnings many times before and self-defence was not escalation.
Berlin lets Ukraine use German weapons against targets in Russia after the US also eases its stance
Germany and the United States have authorized Ukraine to target some Russian positions on Russian soil with long-range weapons supplied by the West, marking a significant policy shift amid the ongoing conflict. This decision, aimed at defending the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, comes as Ukrainian forces face challenges from Russian attacks in the region. The move has drawn strong reactions from Moscow, with warnings of potential NATO involvement in the conflict. Western leaders have been cautious about easing restrictions on weapons due to fears of provoking Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Ukraine can use German weapons to defend Kharkiv border region, Berlin says
Germany stated that Ukraine can use Western-supplied weapons to defend against attacks from Russia near Kharkiv, in line with international law. This follows Russia's strikes from its border area. Germany emphasized Ukraine's right to self-defense and clarified that these weapons can be used within legal obligations, addressing recent scrutiny of its stance.
'Risk averse' West torn over Ukraine push to strike Russia: analysts
Amid rising calls for Ukraine to strike inside Russia using Western-supplied long-range weapons, allies remain cautious due to fears of escalation and nuclear threats from Moscow. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg urged lifting restrictions to aid Ukraine's defense, but the US and Germany hesitate. Despite Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's criticism, divisions persist among Western leaders. Some, like French President Emmanuel Macron, suggest deploying Western troops, challenging traditional stances and highlighting deepening debates on the conflict's next steps.
Why we must stand with standing passengers (from our sitting seats)
It turns out that the last outpost of consistent law enforcement in India is very strict about all passengers sitting down during take-off, landing and turbulence. Not because like the Enforcement Directorate it can, but because you can't wear a seat belt if you're not sitting, and wearing a seat belt is a non-negotiable safety procedure. Airlines would prefer you to die sitting down if there is a mishap.
Fake US election-related accounts proliferating on X, study says
A report by Cyabra revealed that fake accounts on the X platform are influencing the U.S. presidential election. Cyabra's vice president, Rafi Mendelsohn, highlighted the coordinated campaign by fake accounts, with 15% supporting Trump and 7% supporting Biden. Twitter profiles were also analyzed for authenticity.
Top Russian military officials are being arrested. Why is it happening?
Following the arrest of a Russian deputy defense minister last month, a series of detentions of senior military officials on corruption charges has unfolded. These arrests coincided with President Vladimir Putin's fifth term and a reshuffle of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. The detentions have sparked speculation about Putin's control over the Defense Ministry, potential turf battles, or other internal power plays. Corruption has long been entrenched in Russia's system, but the recent crackdown, especially amid the war in Ukraine, suggests a significant shift in handling graft within the defense sector.
With Ukraine losing ground, allies debate how to squeeze cash for Kyiv out of frozen Russian assets
Ukraine's allies are debating how to use frozen Russian assets to support Kyiv's war effort amid Russia's territorial gains. The issue of $260 billion in Russian assets frozen abroad is a key concern at the G7 meeting in Italy.
Ukraine's divisive mobilisation law comes into force as a new Russian push strains front-line troops
A new mobilisation law in Ukraine has sparked controversy as it aims to boost troop numbers amidst Russia's offensive. The law provides incentives for soldiers but has raised concerns about its impact on businesses and essential services. Ukrainian forces are under strain, prompting measures to replenish depleted ranks. Volunteers are joining the fight, but draft dodging and fleeing the country are also occurring. The conflict has led to casualties and displacement, with Ukraine seeking international support to defend against Russian advances.
Putin says Russia wants a buffer zone in Ukraine's Kharkiv but has no plans to capture the city
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated during a visit to China that Russia's offensive in Ukraine's Kharkiv region aims to create a buffer zone without capturing the city. The offensive began on May 10 and led to intense fighting, displacing thousands. Ukrainian drone attacks on Crimea damaged infrastructure, including an airbase and power plant. Ukraine signed laws to increase troop numbers, allowing prisoners to join the army and imposing higher fines for draft dodgers. The conflict has resulted in casualties and damage on both sides, with Russia pushing for territorial gains.
Slovakia's PM Robert Fico shot in assassination attempt, deputy says he is in 'very serious' condition
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico's condition has stabilised but remains "very serious" after being shot multiple times in a political assault. Surgeons performed a lengthy operation to save the 59-year-old leader, with officials expressing hope for his recovery. The attack, condemned globally, marks an unprecedented event in Slovakia.
Who is Robert Fico? 'Anti-American', 'pro-Russian' Slovakia PM badly injured in 'assassination attempt'
Slovakia PM Robert Fico has been shot "multiple times" and is reportedly battling for life. Take a look at Prime Minister of the Slovak Republic's three decade-old political career, personal life and other key details.
Protesters throng streets of Georgia's capital after parliament passes so-called 'Russian law'
Georgia's parliament has approved a "foreign influence" bill, which critics argue is a Russian-style threat to free speech and the country's aspirations to join the European Union. The bill requires media and nongovernmental organizations to register as "pursuing the interests of a foreign power" if they receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad. The opposition has denounced the bill as "the Russian law" because Moscow uses similar legislation to crack down on independent news media, nonprofits, and activists critical of the Kremlin.
Russian President Putin appoints Sergei Shoigu as secretary of Russia's national security council
The appointment comes after Putin proposed appointing Andrei Belousov as the country's defense minister in place of Shoigu, who has served in the post for years. The reshuffle comes as Putin starts his fifth presidential term and as the war in Ukraine drags on for the third year. In line with Russian law, the entire Russian Cabinet resigned on Tuesday following Putin's glittering inauguration in the Kremlin.
Russia comes out in New Delhi’s support; alleges that the US is complicating India’s election process
Washington lacks understanding of India's national mentality and history, says Russia. It also pulled up US for failing to provide any evidence of India's involvement in the foiled assassination attempt of Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
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.
Ukraine parliament passes bill allowing prisoners to join military amid personnel shortage
Ukraine's parliament has passed a bill allowing certain prisoners to enlist in the armed forces amid a critical shortage of military personnel. The move marks a shift in Kyiv's stance, previously opposing such measures. The legislation, awaiting final approval, restricts participation to specific prisoner categories and requires less than three years remaining on their sentence. Despite its passage, concerns have been raised about discrimination and uncertainties regarding prisoners' service. This decision comes as Ukraine faces increased Russian aggression, with efforts to boost military recruitment intensifying.
Russian trainers move to Niger airbase where small number of US troops remain
The arrival of Russian trainers in the West African country about three weeks ago came in the wake of Niger's decision to order out all US troops. The order dealt a blow to US military operations in the Sahel, a vast region south of the Sahara desert where groups linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group operate.
Arrest of Russian defence minister's deputy may be strike by rival 'clan'
Sergei Shoigu, Russia's defence minister, has tried to send a "business as usual" message since his deputy was arrested on a bribery charge. But the widening scandal looks bad for him too, and is seen as a push by a rival clan to dilute his power.
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.
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