Russia has recalled its ambassador to the United Kingdom amid worsening diplomatic relations with London over Britain's continued support for Ukraine. The departure of Andrey Kelin, who served as Moscow's ambassador in London for more than seven years, has left the Russian diplomatic mission without a permanent ambassador as tensions between the two countries continue to deepen.

Kelin left Britain on July 21, but Moscow has not nominated a successor to the UK Foreign Office. The Russian embassy in London said the post is currently being handled by a chargé d'affaires and indicated that a more constructive relationship could resume if Britain changes its approach towards Russia.

Moscow keeps ambassador post vacant

A spokesperson for the Russian embassy confirmed that the Kremlin had not submitted a candidate to replace Kelin. The embassy is therefore continuing its diplomatic work under a chargé d'affaires, without a permanent ambassador in London.

Kelin's departure comes against the backdrop of a sharp deterioration in UK-Russia relations since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Moscow has repeatedly criticised Western countries for their military, political and economic support for Kyiv and has warned of consequences in response to what it considers hostile policies.

Britain maintains support for Ukraine

The latest development comes as Britain continues to strongly support Ukraine despite repeated warnings from Moscow.

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said Britain will continue to support Ukraine fully. His remarks followed Russian warnings over the reported use of British-made drones in attacks on targets deep inside Russian territory.

The Russian embassy in London has previously raised concerns about Britain's alleged involvement in such attacks, while the UK has continued to provide military and political backing to Kyiv.

Putin warns of retaliation

The diplomatic dispute is also unfolding alongside an escalation in attacks targeting Russian economic infrastructure.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused Ukraine of deliberately targeting parts of Russia's economy and warned that Moscow would respond by hitting what he described as Ukraine's most sensitive economic sectors.

Ukraine has increasingly used drones against Russian oil refineries and other infrastructure linked to Moscow's war effort. Kyiv has argued that such operations are intended to disrupt Russia's ability to finance and sustain the war.

Diplomatic divide widens

Moscow's decision not to immediately appoint a replacement for Kelin highlights the increasingly limited space for diplomatic engagement between Russia and Britain.

The relationship has deteriorated substantially since the Ukraine war began, with sanctions, military assistance to Kyiv and accusations over attacks on Russian territory becoming major points of contention.

Russia has previously warned that diplomatic relations with Western countries could be downgraded in response to what it calls unfriendly actions. Moscow has also taken similar steps involving several European countries since the start of the conflict.

Ukraine remains central to tensions

Britain's continued commitment to Ukraine and Russia's increasingly aggressive response to Ukrainian strikes are likely to remain central to the relationship between Moscow and London.

For now, Russia's embassy in London will operate under a chargé d'affaires, while no timetable has been given for the appointment of a new ambassador. The vacant post reflects the broader diplomatic freeze between the two countries as the Ukraine conflict continues.

Russia has reportedly established or expanded at least 10 secret drone bases near its borders with Belarus and Ukraine, with the new infrastructure potentially allowing advanced long-range attack drones to reach parts of NATO territory, according to an investigation by The Telegraph. (Telegraph)

The investigation, based on satellite imagery, leaked documents and analysis by drone intelligence company DroneSec, identified at least 59 newly constructed launch rails across the sites. Around 20 of these rails are reportedly longer designs that could accommodate Russia's newer long-range, jet-powered drones. (Censor.NET)

59 New Launch Rails Identified

The reported facilities are located along Russia's western borders with Belarus and Ukraine. Some have been established at former military bases or airfields, while others are located in more remote areas.

According to the satellite-image analysis, around 20 launch rails appear to have an extended design. Analysts say their dimensions could indicate that they are intended for newer long-range unmanned aircraft rather than smaller drones.

The development points to an expansion of Russia's infrastructure for launching large numbers of drones against Ukraine.

NATO Countries Within Potential Range

The location of the reported bases has raised concerns because Belarus borders Poland, Lithuania and Latvia, all NATO members. Ukraine also borders NATO countries including Romania, Hungary and Slovakia.

Some analysts believe Russia's newest long-range drones could potentially reach Warsaw. However, there is currently no evidence that Russia is preparing a direct attack on Poland, according to reporting surrounding the investigation. (Censor.NET)

The potential range of these systems has nevertheless added to concerns among European governments over the possibility of drones being used beyond the current battlefield in Ukraine.

Bases Could Store Thousands of Drones

The reported expansion is not limited to launch infrastructure. Satellite imagery indicates that some facilities have significant storage capacity.

One of the sites reportedly has enough space to accommodate more than 1,000 drones at a time, highlighting the potential scale of Russia's drone operations.

The expansion comes as Moscow has increasingly relied on unmanned aircraft alongside missiles in attacks on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure.

Russia Expands Jet-Powered Drone Use

Russia has increasingly developed and deployed faster, longer-range variants of drones based on the Iranian-designed Shahed platform.

Recent reports have pointed to a growing use of jet-powered attack drones, which are harder to intercept because of their higher speed. Ukrainian officials and analysts have also reported a sharp increase in the number of such drones being used in Russian attacks. (Межа. Новини України.)

The construction of additional launch facilities could allow Russia to increase the number of drones deployed during individual attacks while reducing dependence on a smaller number of known launch locations.

Drone Network Raises European Security Concerns

DroneSec founder Mike Monnik said the expansion demonstrated how Russia was increasing its ability to launch larger numbers of unmanned aircraft while making some newer drone designs more difficult to intercept.

The development is being watched closely in Europe because of wider concerns over Russia's military and hybrid activities. Western intelligence assessments have previously warned about the possibility of sabotage, cyberattacks and other forms of pressure against European countries.

At the same time, NATO has repeatedly maintained that it is prepared to defend all member states and has been strengthening its counter-drone capabilities.

Ukraine Remains Primary Battlefield

Despite concerns about their potential range into NATO territory, the newly identified bases are currently primarily associated with Russia's war against Ukraine.

Reports indicate that several of the sites have already been used to support attacks against Ukrainian targets. The growing network would allow Russia to launch drones from multiple locations, potentially making Ukrainian air-defence planning more difficult. (RBC Ukraine)

The reported construction therefore represents not only a potential challenge for NATO but also another sign of how drone warfare is evolving in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

For European governments, the expansion has added urgency to efforts to improve early-warning systems, air defence and counter-drone technology as Russia continues to develop longer-range unmanned weapons.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday visited the Kuril Islands, a Russian-controlled Pacific archipelago also claimed by Japan, prompting a strong diplomatic protest from Tokyo and adding fresh tension to already strained relations between the two countries.

Putin travelled to Iturup, one of the southernmost Kuril Islands, marking his first visit to the disputed territory. During the trip, he toured a fish-processing facility, a hospital and a school, met local residents and held discussions with Sakhalin regional governor Valery Limarenko.

Japan Calls Visit Unacceptable

Japan claims four southern islands of the Kuril chain, which it refers to as the Northern Territories.

Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi strongly objected to Putin's visit, reiterating Tokyo's position that the disputed islands are Japanese territory.

“The Northern Territories, including Etorofu (Iturup) Island, are Japan’s inherent territory both historically and from the perspective of international law,” Motegi said.

Japan subsequently summoned Russian Ambassador Nikolay Nozdrev to its Foreign Ministry and demanded that the protest be conveyed to Moscow.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi also described Putin's visit as “absolutely unacceptable” and said it was inconsistent with Tokyo's position on the Northern Territories.

Moscow Rejects Tokyo's Claim

Russia rejected Japan's objection, maintaining that the southern Kuril Islands are an integral part of Russian territory.

The Russian Embassy argued that the islands became part of Russia following the end of World War II and that Putin's visit was a sovereign decision that did not require approval or consultation with Japan.

Moscow has consistently rejected Japan's territorial claim and considers its control over the islands to be settled.

Dispute Dates Back to World War II

The territorial dispute has its roots in the final days of World War II, when the Soviet Union took control of the Kuril Islands.

Japan's claim over the four southern islands has remained a major issue in relations between Tokyo and Moscow. The disagreement has also prevented the two countries from signing a formal post-war peace treaty.

The dispute has persisted despite periodic efforts by both sides to improve relations.

Putin Defends Russia's Position

Putin had travelled to Russia's Far East in recent days, visiting Sakhalin before heading to Iturup.

He also observed military exercises involving Russia's Pacific Fleet.

Speaking aboard a warship participating in the exercises, Putin defended Moscow's position on the disputed islands, arguing that their current status was established through international agreements and documents following World War II.

At the same time, he said Russia remained open to negotiations with Japan aimed at reaching a peace treaty.

Putin also referred to his earlier efforts to improve relations with former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Ukraine War Strains Relations

Relations between Russia and Japan have deteriorated significantly following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Japan joined Western countries in imposing sanctions on Russia and has increasingly identified Moscow as a major security concern.

Putin blamed the worsening relationship partly on Japan's sanctions policy and its decision to designate Russia as a primary security threat.

Tokyo has nevertheless maintained limited engagement with Moscow, particularly over arrangements allowing former Japanese residents of the disputed islands to visit family graves and pay respects to relatives.

Visit Could Complicate Dialogue

Putin's visit could make those efforts more difficult and further complicate already sensitive relations.

Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, who is now deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, rejected Takaichi's criticism of the visit.

Medvedev said on X that the Kuril Islands “were, are, and will remain Russian land” and warned that refusing to accept what he described as this reality could have serious consequences.

The latest dispute highlights how the territorial question continues to affect Russia-Japan relations decades after World War II and remains a major obstacle to a formal peace settlement between the two countries.

India is showing growing interest in Russia’s Northern Sea Route (NSR) as Moscow seeks to expand Arctic shipping and develop the corridor into a major trade link between Europe and Asia, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday.

Putin said Russia was seeing increasing interest from Asian countries, particularly India and China, in cooperation on the Arctic shipping route. Moscow is seeking to redirect more trade towards Asian markets while strengthening its presence in the Arctic.

Speaking to Pacific Fleet personnel aboard the missile cruiser Varyag, Putin said Russia remained open to international cooperation on the route, provided such engagement followed international maritime law.

He said countries including China and India were actively discussing cooperation with Russia on the Northern Sea Route.

Russia Pushes Arctic Route

The Northern Sea Route runs along Russia’s Arctic coastline and connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans through waters north of Siberia.

Russia has been investing heavily in the corridor as it seeks an alternative to traditional shipping routes such as the Suez Canal.

The route can potentially shorten shipping distances between Europe and Asia. However, extreme cold, sea ice, limited infrastructure and difficult navigation continue to pose challenges.

Ships operating in the region may require ice-strengthened designs and support from specialised icebreakers.

India Shows Growing Interest

For India, the Northern Sea Route could become another connectivity option for trade with Russia, particularly for energy supplies and other commodities.

India and Russia have already discussed greater cooperation on Arctic shipping and the development of mechanisms to facilitate the use of the route.

The NSR could complement other India-Russia connectivity initiatives, including the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and the proposed Chennai-Vladivostok maritime corridor.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also highlighted the importance of strengthening connectivity between India and Russia and has spoken about training Indian sailors for navigation in Arctic waters.

Energy Trade Could Benefit

India is one of the world's major buyers of Russian crude oil, making shipping connectivity an important part of the broader bilateral economic relationship.

A more developed Arctic route could provide additional options for transporting Russian energy and other goods to Asian markets.

For Moscow, stronger cooperation with India is also strategically significant as Russia continues to deepen its economic relationships with Asian countries amid Western sanctions related to the Ukraine conflict.

China has emerged as a major partner in Russia's Arctic strategy, but Moscow is also seeking broader participation from other Asian economies.

Russia Expands Arctic Infrastructure

Russia has invested in ports, navigation systems, logistics facilities and a fleet of nuclear-powered icebreakers to support the development of the Northern Sea Route.

The country wants to increase the volume of cargo transported through the Arctic and eventually establish the route as a more reliable commercial corridor.

Russian energy companies have already increased shipments towards Asian markets through Arctic waters, while Chinese companies have shown growing interest in using the route for container shipping.

The gradual reduction in Arctic sea ice has also increased the period during which commercial vessels can navigate parts of the route, although ice conditions remain a major operational factor.

Putin Warns of Rising Tensions

Putin's comments on cooperation came alongside a warning about what he described as growing "artificial tensions" in the Arctic.

Russia has repeatedly criticised increased military activity by Western countries and Nato in the region, describing the Arctic as an increasingly important area of geopolitical competition.

The region has gained strategic significance because of its shipping routes, energy reserves and mineral resources.

As Arctic ice retreats, countries are also assessing the potential economic opportunities created by easier access to previously difficult-to-reach areas.

Arctic Route Faces Challenges

Despite its potential, the Northern Sea Route remains considerably more challenging than established international shipping lanes.

Extreme weather, seasonal ice, specialised vessels, insurance costs and limited infrastructure can make Arctic shipping expensive.

For India, greater participation would therefore require investments in Arctic navigation capabilities, trained personnel and suitable vessels.

The route's commercial viability will also depend on how quickly Russia can develop year-round infrastructure and how geopolitical conditions evolve.

India-Russia Connectivity Expands

Putin's latest remarks indicate that Moscow sees India as an important potential partner in the development of the Northern Sea Route.

For India, participation could strengthen access to Russian energy and markets while adding another option to its wider connectivity network.

The Arctic is simultaneously becoming a more competitive geopolitical space, with Russia, the United States, Nato countries and Asian powers seeking greater strategic and commercial influence.

The Northern Sea Route is therefore emerging not only as a potential trade corridor but also as an important part of the changing economic and geopolitical relationship between Russia and Asia.

 Russia's Supreme Court has barred Yabloko, the country's only openly anti-war political party, from contesting the September parliamentary elections, removing one of the last electoral options for voters opposed to Moscow's war in Ukraine.

The court on Monday upheld a legal challenge brought by a pro-Kremlin nationalist party and cancelled the registration of Yabloko's federal candidate list for the elections to the ninth State Duma.

Judge Vyacheslav Kirillov announced the ruling during the hearing, saying the claims seeking to annul the registration of Yabloko's candidate list had been granted.

Yabloko leader Nikolay Rybakov said the party would appeal the decision.

Yabloko Plans Legal Appeal

Speaking to supporters outside the court, Rybakov said the party still had work ahead and reiterated its opposition to the war.

He said Yabloko's efforts would remain focused on reducing deaths and restoring peace.

Around 100 supporters, many of them young people, gathered outside the courthouse after the ruling. Demonstrators reportedly chanted slogans condemning the decision.

The ruling means Yabloko will not be able to campaign as a federal party in September's parliamentary vote unless its appeal succeeds.

Russia's Only Liberal Opposition Party

Yabloko is widely regarded as Russia's remaining liberal political party operating inside the country.

The party was founded in 1993 by pro-Western public officials and initially achieved electoral success following the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Its political influence has declined considerably over the past two decades. Since 2003, Yabloko has failed to win seats in the State Duma, while President Vladimir Putin's United Russia party has dominated parliamentary elections.

Several prominent opposition figures living outside Russia have supported Yabloko, including Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of late opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Russian authorities have designated both Navalnaya and Navalny as extremists.

Party Members Face Prosecution

Yabloko has faced increasing pressure over its opposition to Russia's military campaign in Ukraine.

Rybakov told AFP that around 40 party activists were facing prosecution.

The party's deputy leader Maxim Kruglov was sentenced to seven years in prison in June over social media posts critical of the conflict. The head of Yabloko's Pskov branch, Lev Shlosberg, was also arrested last year.

Rybakov himself was fined in December over the publication of a photograph of Navalny on social media. The penalty has prevented him from standing in the September election.

Support Among Young Voters

Despite its limited electoral support, Yabloko has attempted to build its campaign around opposition to the Ukraine war and calls for a negotiated settlement.

A Yabloko supporter, 22-year-old Yevgenia, told AFP that she planned to vote for the party to express dissatisfaction with the country's current direction.

She also said she wanted a peaceful agreement that could bring the military operation to an end.

The party has sought to appeal particularly to younger voters, amid concerns over the effects of the conflict on everyday life, including disruptions caused by internet shutdowns introduced by authorities during Ukrainian drone attacks.

Party Below Election Threshold

Yabloko's electoral prospects were already limited before the Supreme Court ruling.

A poll conducted earlier this year put the party's support at around 3 per cent, below the 5 per cent threshold required to enter Russia's lower house through the federal party-list system.

The party's exclusion therefore removes a political organisation that was already unlikely to cross the parliamentary threshold but remained an important platform for openly expressing opposition to the war.

Wider Political Context

The ruling comes as Russia's political environment remains tightly controlled, with many prominent critics of the Kremlin imprisoned, living abroad or otherwise barred from political activity.

Meanwhile, efforts to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine have continued without a lasting settlement. Russian President Vladimir Putin has maintained territorial demands, while negotiations involving Kyiv have repeatedly faced obstacles.

Independent polling cited by AFP has indicated that many Russians favour negotiations with Ukraine, although the political space for openly advocating such positions remains restricted.

For Yabloko, the Supreme Court decision represents another setback after years of declining electoral influence and increasing pressure on its members.

The party's planned appeal will now determine whether it can regain access to the September ballot.

At least 17 people have been killed in a fresh wave of attacks between Russia and Ukraine, as both sides continue to expand the use of drones, artillery and long-range strikes beyond the main battlefield.

A Ukrainian drone attack in Russia's Tatarstan region killed at least 12 people and injured 39 others on Monday, according to regional authorities. In a separate incident, Russian artillery fire killed five people in Ukraine's Kharkiv region.

The latest casualties underline the growing danger to civilians as Moscow and Kyiv continue to target infrastructure and positions far from the front line.

Deadly Strike in Tatarstan

The Ukrainian drone attack targeted Nizhnekamsk in Tatarstan, more than 1,000 kilometres from Ukrainian territory.

Tatarstan is one of Russia's important industrial regions and has major energy facilities, including oil-related infrastructure. Ukrainian forces have increasingly targeted Russian energy and industrial sites in an effort to disrupt facilities considered important to Moscow's war economy.

Local authorities said 12 people died and 39 were wounded in Monday's attack.

Videos circulating online appeared to show a large column of smoke rising from the industrial area, although the footage and details of the damage could not be independently verified.

The strike also demonstrated the increasing range of Ukraine's drone campaign, allowing Kyiv to threaten industrial locations well behind Russia's western border.

Moscow Claims Hundreds of Drones Intercepted

Russia's Defence Ministry said its air-defence forces intercepted 456 Ukrainian drones overnight.

Moscow regularly reports large numbers of Ukrainian drones being intercepted or destroyed during attacks, although the exact number of drones that were launched and the extent of damage caused by individual strikes can be difficult to independently establish.

The reported attack on Tatarstan nevertheless highlights the challenges facing Russian authorities in protecting industrial sites located far from the Ukrainian border.

Five Killed in Kharkiv Attack

At the same time, Russian artillery fire caused fresh civilian deaths in Ukraine.

Five people were killed in Bugaivka village, in the Chuhuiv district of Kharkiv region, after what Ukrainian officials described as a major artillery attack on a residential area.

Several houses were damaged or destroyed in the strike.

The attack reflects the continuing vulnerability of communities located close to active areas of the war. Russian artillery and drone attacks remain a regular threat in settlements near the front, where residents have faced repeated bombardments since the conflict began.

Ukraine's Air Force said Russia had also launched 126 drones during its overnight offensive.

More Attacks Reported

The violence was not limited to the two main incidents.

Ukrainian officials reported that a man was killed after a Russian drone struck a taxi in the frontline Kherson region.

Meanwhile, Russian authorities reported a separate death in the border region of Belgorod, which was attributed to a Ukrainian attack.

The reports could not all be independently verified, and both sides have frequently accused each other of deliberately targeting civilian areas.

Long-Range Warfare Expands

The latest incidents show how the nature of the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to evolve.

Ukraine has increasingly relied on long-range drones to strike Russian oil refineries, industrial facilities and military-linked infrastructure. Russia, meanwhile, continues to use drones, missiles and artillery against Ukrainian cities, infrastructure and frontline communities.

The attack on Tatarstan is particularly notable because of its distance from the Ukrainian border. The ability to strike deep inside Russian territory gives Ukraine another way to put pressure on Moscow's energy and industrial network.

For Russia, sustained drone attacks also force authorities to divert air-defence resources toward protecting sites far from the battlefield.

Civilians Bear the Cost

As the two countries intensify their long-range campaigns, civilians continue to face the consequences.

In Ukraine, communities near the front remain exposed to artillery and drone strikes. In Russia, attacks on industrial regions and border areas have created a growing security challenge for authorities.

The increasing use of relatively inexpensive drones has also made it possible for both sides to conduct attacks over much greater distances.

With no immediate end to the fighting in sight, the latest deaths underline that the intensity of the war can no longer be measured only by developments along the front line. Strikes hundreds or even more than a thousand kilometres away are increasingly becoming part of the conflict, widening the potential impact on civilians and critical infrastructure.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to visit India in September to attend the 18th BRICS Leaders' Summit, marking what would be his first visit to the country since the 2019 informal summit in Mamallapuram and the first after India-China relations deteriorated following the Galwan Valley clash in 2020.

The summit is scheduled to be held in New Delhi on September 12–13, 2026, with India hosting the expanded BRICS grouping at a time of growing geopolitical and economic realignments.

If the visit goes ahead as planned, it will be Xi's first trip to India in nearly seven years and one of the most closely watched diplomatic engagements between the two Asian neighbours since tensions escalated along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Invitation Extended During SCO Summit

According to government officials, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended the invitation to Xi Jinping during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit held in Tianjin in August 2025.

Chinese officials later conveyed that Xi had accepted the invitation and expressed support for India's BRICS presidency.

The summit is expected to bring together leaders from the expanded BRICS bloc, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, and heads of state from other member countries.

Relations Showing Signs of Recovery

The expected visit comes amid gradual efforts by New Delhi and Beijing to stabilise bilateral relations after years of diplomatic and military tensions.

Several confidence-building measures have been implemented over the past two years, including:

• A military disengagement understanding reached in October 2024 to reduce tensions along the Line of Actual Control.

• Gradual restoration of direct commercial flight services.

• Easing of visa restrictions for citizens of both countries.

• China's participation in India's AI Impact Summit earlier this year.

Despite these developments, both countries continue to maintain significant military deployments along disputed border areas.

BRICS Summit Gains Strategic Importance

The upcoming BRICS summit is expected to take place against the backdrop of heightened global geopolitical uncertainty, including trade disputes, conflicts in West Asia, supply chain disruptions and efforts by emerging economies to strengthen cooperation through multilateral platforms.

Analysts believe the summit could provide an important opportunity for India and China to continue diplomatic engagement while managing unresolved issues related to border security and bilateral relations.

Apart from economic cooperation, discussions are expected to focus on global financial reforms, trade, technology, energy security, artificial intelligence, climate action and strengthening collaboration among emerging economies.

Significant Diplomatic Engagement

Xi Jinping's proposed visit is likely to attract considerable international attention because it would represent the highest-level bilateral engagement between India and China since relations were strained following the Galwan Valley clash in June 2020.

Diplomatic observers say the visit could serve as an opportunity for both governments to review progress made in restoring communication channels while exploring areas of cooperation despite continuing strategic differences.

Although officials from both sides are yet to announce the final schedule, preparations for the BRICS Summit are expected to intensify in the coming weeks as India readies to host leaders from one of the world's most influential emerging economy groupings.

US President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to Russia and China, saying there would be "dire consequences" if either country intervenes in support of Iran amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East. Trump said he believes both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping have assured him that their countries will not provide weapons to Tehran.

In a post shared on social media on Friday, Trump dismissed speculation that Moscow or Beijing were actively supporting Iran in the ongoing conflict. However, he made it clear that any change in that position would trigger a serious response from the United States.

"I don't believe China or Russia are involved in the Iran war. But if they are, it won't end well for them," Trump said.

The US President revealed that during his recent meeting with Xi Jinping in Beijing, the Chinese leader assured him that China would not send weapons to Iran "under any circumstances." Trump also claimed Xi confirmed that Chinese companies would follow the same policy.

"I believe Xi Jinping," Trump wrote, expressing confidence that Beijing would keep its commitment.

Trump also said Russian President Vladimir Putin had given him a similar assurance that Russia would not supply military equipment to Iran despite Moscow's close ties with Tehran.

Trump Says He Is Still in Contact With Putin

Despite the continuing war in Ukraine, Trump said he remains in regular contact with Putin.

He also addressed US military assistance to Ukraine, clarifying that Washington does not directly provide weapons to Kyiv. Instead, he said, the United States supplies arms to NATO allies, which purchase the equipment and decide how to use it.

"We sell weapons to NATO countries. They pay the full cost, and what they do with those weapons afterward is their decision," Trump said.

Netanyahu to Meet Trump in Washington

As tensions continue to rise in the Middle East, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to visit Washington on Monday for talks with President Trump.

The meeting will mark the first face-to-face discussion between the two leaders since the Iran conflict intensified. The agenda is expected to focus on regional security, military coordination, and diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation.

Oil Prices Cross $100 a Barrel

The ongoing conflict has begun affecting global energy markets.

Brent crude oil prices climbed above $100 per barrel for the first time since May as fears of supply disruptions in the Gulf intensified. Analysts say continued instability near the Strait of Hormuz could push energy prices even higher in the coming weeks.

Iran Launches Drone Strikes on US Bases in Kuwait

Iran reportedly carried out drone attacks on three American military installations in Kuwait on Friday.

The targeted bases included:

• Camp Arifjan
• Camp Doha
• Camp Adairi

The attacks underscore the widening regional dimensions of the conflict and have heightened concerns over the safety of US military personnel stationed across the Gulf.

Iran Rejects US Pressure

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated that Tehran would not surrender to US pressure or threats.

Speaking at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Kyrgyzstan, Araghchi said Iran would continue defending its sovereignty despite mounting international pressure.

Indian Crew Safe After Tanker Attack

In another development, an LPG tanker sailing under the Mozambique flag came under attack in Iranian waters near the Strait of Hormuz.

The Indian Embassy confirmed that all 28 Indian crew members aboard the vessel are safe, providing relief amid growing concerns over maritime security in one of the world's busiest shipping routes.

Poland's Deputy Foreign Minister Wladyslaw Teofil Bartoszewski has said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi played a significant role in a multinational diplomatic effort that helped prevent Russia from using tactical nuclear weapons during the Ukraine conflict in 2022.

Speaking at a press briefing in New Delhi during his official visit to India, Bartoszewski said Prime Minister Modi was among the few global leaders capable of influencing Russian President Vladimir Putin during one of the most sensitive phases of the Russia-Ukraine war.

Poland Highlights India's Diplomatic Role

Bartoszewski stated that India's leadership contributed to international efforts aimed at preventing nuclear escalation in the conflict.

"Prime Minister Modi is one of the few people who actually can exert some pressure and influence on President Putin, and that is clearly something India could do to stop this conflict," Bartoszewski said.

He further claimed that Modi's intervention formed part of broader diplomatic engagement that discouraged Russia from considering the use of tactical nuclear weapons toward the end of 2022.

Nuclear Threats Marked Early Phase of War

Since launching its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russia and several of its senior officials have repeatedly issued statements referring to the country's nuclear capabilities, raising concerns among Western governments over potential escalation.

Although Western intelligence agencies have consistently maintained that there was no immediate indication of an imminent Russian nuclear strike, they have also assessed that Moscow's nuclear rhetoric should not be dismissed outright.

According to a 2024 assessment by the US intelligence community, Russia's inability to secure rapid battlefield victories, combined with Ukrainian strikes inside Russian territory, continued to fuel concerns that President Putin might consider the use of nuclear weapons under certain circumstances.

India's Position on the Conflict

India has consistently maintained that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable path to resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Prime Minister Modi has repeatedly conveyed this position during meetings with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian leaders, emphasising that "this is not an era of war" and calling for peaceful negotiations.

New Delhi has also balanced its strategic ties with both Moscow and Western partners while advocating respect for international law and a negotiated settlement.

Remarks Come Amid Continued Diplomatic Engagement

The Polish minister's comments come as India continues to engage with European countries on security, trade and geopolitical issues amid the prolonged conflict in Ukraine.

While Bartoszewski's remarks highlight Poland's assessment of India's diplomatic influence, no independent official account has publicly detailed the specific diplomatic exchanges that he referred to regarding the reported efforts to prevent nuclear escalation in 2022.

Trump Tells Putin US Ready to Help End Ukraine War During 90-Minute Phone Conversation

US President Donald Trump has offered American assistance in finding a political solution to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war during a 90-minute telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to the Kremlin.

The call, which took place on Saturday as Putin extended Independence Day greetings to Trump, also included discussions on the upcoming NATO summit scheduled to be held in Ankara, Turkey, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said while briefing reporters on Sunday.

According to Ushakov, Trump reiterated his willingness to work towards bringing an end to the conflict in Ukraine and expressed readiness to support efforts aimed at achieving a negotiated settlement.

"The American president once again confirmed his readiness to work towards a rapid end to the fighting and find solutions to overcome the crisis," Ushakov said, describing the conversation as "business-like and quite constructive."

He added that Russia continued to favour what it called a "political-diplomatic resolution" of the conflict, provided any settlement takes into account Moscow's core strategic interests.

The latest conversation comes amid renewed diplomatic activity surrounding the Ukraine conflict and ahead of the NATO summit, where the war is expected to remain one of the alliance's principal agenda items.

Ushakov said the two leaders also exchanged views regarding Trump's expected participation in the summit in Ankara next week, though no additional details of those discussions were disclosed.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that he had also spoken with Trump, although the Ukrainian presidency did not immediately provide details of their conversation.

The Kremlin briefing also included fresh accusations against Ukraine and its European partners. Ushakov alleged that Kyiv and its Western allies were seeking to prolong and escalate the conflict through continued military operations.

He specifically referred to Ukraine's long-range drone strikes targeting Russian oil infrastructure, which Moscow claims have disrupted fuel supplies in several regions.

According to Ushakov, Putin used the conversation to present what he described as the "real situation" on the battlefield, asserting that Russian forces were continuing to make territorial gains in eastern Ukraine.

Russian military commanders had informed Putin on Friday that Russian troops had captured the strategically significant city of Kostiantynivka in Ukraine's Donetsk region.

However, Ukraine has rejected that claim. On Saturday, both President Zelenskyy and Ukraine's General Staff stated that Ukrainian forces remained in control of the city and continued to defend their positions.

The differing battlefield narratives underscore the continuing information war accompanying the military conflict, with both Moscow and Kyiv issuing conflicting accounts of developments on the ground.

Russia has consistently maintained that any future peace agreement must recognise its control over the Donbas region, including territories currently occupied by Russian forces. Ukraine has firmly rejected those demands, insisting that its internationally recognised borders remain non-negotiable.

Last month, Zelenskyy publicly invited Putin to hold direct face-to-face talks in an effort to explore possible avenues for ending the conflict. The Kremlin, however, declined the proposal, indicating that such a meeting was not under consideration.

Trump has repeatedly stated that he wants to see the war brought to an end through negotiations and has emphasised the need for renewed diplomatic engagement between the two sides.

The latest phone call signals continued high-level contacts between Washington and Moscow even as fighting persists on the battlefield. Whether Trump's latest outreach results in renewed peace efforts remains uncertain, with both Russia and Ukraine continuing to maintain sharply different positions on the conditions required for a negotiated settlement.

In a rare bipartisan rebuke, the US Senate on Wednesday passed a resolution calling on President Donald Trump to stop further military action against Iran, marking the first such congressional intervention under the 1973 War Powers Act.

The measure cleared the Senate by a narrow 50-48 vote, with four Republican senators joining Democrats in support. It had already received approval in the House of Representatives earlier. The resolution seeks to require congressional approval for any additional military operations against Iran.

This development comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts following the recent US-Iran agreement. The White House, however, quickly dismissed the resolution's impact, stating it has no legal binding and that major military operations related to the conflict have already concluded. Administration officials asserted that the President retains broad authority on national security matters.

The vote highlighted deepening divisions within the Republican Party during Trump's second term, with the support from four GOP lawmakers seen as the first major internal break on a key foreign policy issue.

Rubio in Gulf for Damage Control

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is in the United Arab Emirates as part of a regional tour that also includes Bahrain and Kuwait. The visit aims to reassure Gulf allies worried about the implications of the US-Iran deal, particularly its potential to boost Iran's regional influence around the Strait of Hormuz.

Gulf partners have expressed concerns over the absence of firm restrictions on Iran's missile programme and reports of a possible $300 billion reconstruction package for Tehran. Rubio, received by the US Ambassador to the UAE in Abu Dhabi, is expected to address these issues directly and seek broader backing for the agreement.

Shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz has shown signs of recovery, with vessel crossings nearly tripling week-on-week. Several Indian-linked ships have successfully transited the waterway since the June 17 agreement, while crude oil prices eased slightly on hopes of normalised energy flows.

Trump's Mixed Signals

President Trump, meanwhile, continued to strike a tough tone. He warned Iran against violating the agreement and claimed Tehran has agreed to international inspections of its nuclear sites. "If they back down, I will cancel the conversation now," Trump said during remarks in Pennsylvania. He also suggested the US could "finish the job" in less than a week if Iran is not "reasonable."

On the other hand, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian ruled out including the missile programme in any future talks, calling it a key pillar of national security. He made the remarks during a visit to Pakistan, where Russian President Vladimir Putin was also present for discussions on regional security.

Broader Regional Ripples

The Senate vote comes as other developments continue to unfold. A UN commission of inquiry released a report alleging that Israeli actions against Palestinian children in Gaza may amount to genocide and war crimes, prompting strong reactions from Palestinian authorities. Separately, Syrians pushed back against suggestions of involving their country in confronting Hezbollah in Lebanon.

In the energy sector, Qatar said LNG production would resume within weeks after earlier disruptions.

The Senate resolution, though largely symbolic according to the White House, is being watched closely for its political message. It reflects growing congressional unease over potential escalation in West Asia even as diplomacy takes centre stage.

As trading and diplomatic engagements continue, further clarity is expected on how the US administration balances domestic political pushback with its strategic goals in the region. Market participants and regional players will be tracking the next steps closely.

A fresh controversy has emerged in Pakistan’s political discourse after a media report alleged that the removal of former Prime Minister Imran Khan in 2022 was not merely the result of a parliamentary no-confidence motion, but part of a broader geopolitical strategy involving the United States and the Pakistan military establishment.

The report, published by an international media outlet, claims that tensions between Washington and Islamabad escalated after Imran Khan’s visit to Moscow on 24 February 2022, the same day Russia launched its military operation in Ukraine. According to the report, the visit angered the United States, which expected Pakistan to take a clear anti-Russia stance on the conflict. Imran Khan’s government, however, maintained a neutral position on the Russia-Ukraine war, refusing to directly condemn Moscow. This, according to the report, marked a turning point in US-Pakistan diplomatic relations.

The allegations further claim that on 7 March 2022, a key meeting took place in Washington between Pakistan’s then ambassador Asad Majeed Khan and US Assistant Secretary of State Donald Lu. During this interaction, Lu reportedly conveyed that if Imran Khan were removed through a no-confidence vote, the United States would “forgive everything” and restore normal relations. This alleged communication later became central to Pakistan’s domestic political debate and formed the basis of the so-called “Cypher case,” which Imran Khan repeatedly cited as evidence of foreign interference in his removal.

According to the report, a lunch meeting in Washington further intensified pressure, where concerns were raised about Pakistan’s foreign policy direction under Imran Khan. The US side reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with Pakistan’s stance on Russia and warned of diplomatic isolation if policy alignment did not change. The timeline presented in the report suggests that just 33 days after the alleged diplomatic exchange, on 9 April 2022, Imran Khan lost power following a successful no-confidence motion in Pakistan’s parliament. Shortly after, Shehbaz Sharif became the new Prime Minister.

The report also highlights subsequent political developments in Pakistan, suggesting that the country’s internal power structure underwent significant changes after Imran Khan’s removal. These include leadership transitions within the military establishment and increased political instability, including mass protests and legal cases against PTI leadership. In November 2022, Pakistan’s army leadership changed when General Asim Munir replaced General Qamar Javed Bajwa as Chief of Army Staff. Imran Khan has previously alleged that this appointment was politically influenced, though no official confirmation has supported the claim.

In May 2023, Imran Khan was arrested in a corruption case, triggering widespread protests and unrest across the country. The political situation further intensified when his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), faced restrictions and internal fragmentation ahead of the 2024 general elections. Despite electoral setbacks, PTI-backed independent candidates reportedly performed strongly in the polls, but a coalition government was eventually formed by rival parties Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP).

The report also suggests that Pakistan’s relations with the United States improved significantly after Imran Khan’s removal. Bilateral cooperation reportedly expanded into strategic, economic and defense-related areas, marking a shift from the earlier strained ties. However, these claims remain politically sensitive and highly contested. The United States has consistently denied allegations of orchestrating regime change in Pakistan, maintaining that the 2022 political transition was an internal constitutional process.

Imran Khan, on his part, has repeatedly maintained that his government was removed due to a foreign-backed conspiracy. He has linked the alleged “Cypher” diplomatic communication to his claim that external pressure played a decisive role in the no-confidence vote. The new report has reignited debate within Pakistan’s political landscape, particularly among supporters of PTI, who argue that the allegations validate long-standing claims of foreign interference. PTI leaders have described the report as further proof supporting their stance on the Cypher controversy.

Imran Khan, who has been in prison since August 2023, continues to face multiple legal cases. He has been convicted in several cases, including the Al-Qadir Trust case and earlier Cypher-related charges, though some convictions have been overturned or suspended by higher courts. As political tensions continue, the narrative surrounding Imran Khan’s ouster remains deeply polarised, reflecting broader divisions within Pakistan’s politics and its complex relationship with global powers.