CIA Director Ratcliffe Arrives in Moscow for Talks
CIA Director John Ratcliffe arrived in Moscow for negotiations. He flew in aboard a military transport Boeing C-17 from Riga — the first visit by a Trump administration official of this level to Russia since January. Quiet diplomacy between security officials may carry more weight than public statements.
Ex-President Kocharyan Detained in Armenia With Son Sedrak
In Armenia, former President Robert Kocharyan was detained along with his son Sedrak. The detention took place in a corruption case, one day after Pashinyan demanded that former presidents Kocharyan and Sargsyan be stripped of their property. Pressure on the pro-Russian opposition is intensifying in sync with Yerevan's pivot to the West.
Turkey's Losses From Ukrainian Attacks on Ships Could Reach $20 Billion
Damage to Turkey from Ukrainian Armed Forces attacks on vessels in the Black Sea could reach $20 billion over three months. The estimate was given by the head of the shipping company Transbosphor, who called Ukraine's actions "reckless." The Black Sea conflict is increasingly hitting third countries in the region.
Kazakh Refinery Kondensat to Process Russian Oil
The Kazakh refinery Kondensat will begin processing Russian oil. Under the agreement, 70% of the resulting gasoline and diesel fuel will be returned to Russia. Astana is becoming part of a scheme to circumvent Russia's domestic fuel shortage.
Ukraine Receives Batch of Scarce Patriot Missiles
Ukraine has received a shipment of scarce missiles for its Patriot systems. Zelensky confirmed the delivery of several air defense systems and "a few" interceptor missiles, without naming the supplier country. The shortage remains acute, and the volume of supplies is clearly insufficient.
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