Geopolitical Digest by Mikhail Azhgirevich for August 11, 2026

Moscow gives Armenia one month to choose between the EAEU and the EU

Deputy Foreign Minister Galuzin stated that Yerevan must announce a referendum by December, or else at the CSTO summit on November 11 Armenia could be stripped of its voting rights and quota positions over debts owed to the organization. Talk of an "intelligent divorce" is turning into a harsh ultimatum.

Russian Armed Forces strike Kyiv's and Zaporizhzhia's defense industry

A logistics terminal storing components for drones and the Zaporizhstal plant, which produces armor-grade rolled steel, were hit. The strikes were aimed at the industrial base of Ukraine's military-industrial complex.

Serbia prepares to abolish visa-free travel with Russia by 2027

Joining the Schengen zone requires synchronizing visa policy with the EU — Montenegro has already taken this step. Another visa-free country for Russians may soon close its doors.

Russia's budget deficit exceeds 6 trillion rubles for January–July

That amounts to 2.8% of GDP — the Finance Ministry attributes it to accelerated spending disbursement. The fiscal burden is growing amid sanctions pressure.

Sochi restricts gasoline sales due to supply disruptions

Authorities have urged residents to avoid using private vehicles, as major operators have introduced limits at filling stations. The fuel crisis has reached the resort region at the height of the season.