Russian Federation

G7 leaders are set to meet in France to discuss Ukraine, Gaza, and Iran amid Russian attacks on Kyiv, including a strike on the Pechersk Lavra monastery. Russia denied targeting civilian infrastructure, claiming a US-made Patriot missile damaged the site, while the EU announced new sanctions against Russia's military-industrial complex.

EU member countries approved starting membership talks with Ukraine and Moldova, focusing on core values and principles. Both nations seek EU accession to distance from Russian influence, with Hungary recently lifting its opposition to Ukraine's bid.

EU Chief Diplomat Kaja Kallas proposes sanctions on Russian metals, targeting the Aughinish Alumina refinery in Ireland, which supplies materials to Russia. Ireland faces pressure to support the 22nd sanctions package despite economic concerns over the refinery’s 500 jobs and potential energy grid impacts.

The Estonian Language Institute (ELI) has developed a 'Propaganda Resistance' benchmark to evaluate large language models' (LLMs) ability to avoid Russian Federation narratives on topics like Crimea, Ukraine, and NATO. The benchmark, created with Propastop, assesses LLM responses to neutral, biased, or malicious questions in multiple languages, using an AI model calibrated to expert judgments.

Rep. Don Bacon called for Russia's removal from the UN Security Council, labeling it a 'pariah state' and urging the UN General Assembly to vote on its expulsion. He also advocated for increased U.S. military aid to Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing in a weaker position compared to his 2020 visit before the Ukraine invasion. U.S. President Donald Trump faced criticism for failing to secure China's support on Iran-related issues during his Beijing visit, as his domestic popularity remains historically low.

A UK spy plane was intercepted by Russian jets over the Black Sea, with one jet flying as close as 19 feet to the British plane's nose. The incident involved a British aircraft and Russian military jets. The close proximity of the jets poses a significant danger to the safety of the planes.

Congress is a target for foreign spies, particularly from China, who aim to influence US interests and national security through various means, including targeting lawmakers and their staff. A recent example is the resignation of Eileen Wang, mayor of Arcadia, California, after pleading guilty to acting as a foreign agent for China. Foreign intelligence assets also attempt to gain access to principals' aides and staff.

Russian officials announced the liberation of Luhansk People's Republic for the third time on April 1, 2026, raising questions about Russia's true objectives in its military operation in Ukraine. The pattern of repeated announcements about the same military achievements suggests the Kremlin may have shifted its focus from winning the war to domestic political concerns.

A Ukrainian baby girl's leg was blown off in a drone attack attributed to Vladimir Putin, leaving her fighting for life. The attack is described as 'utterly senseless'. The incident highlights the human cost of the ongoing conflict.

Polish intelligence has warned of hacker attacks on water treatment control systems, with increased hostile cyber activity in 2024 and 2025. The agency hinted at Russian involvement but did not publicly attribute the incidents to a specific group or country. Poland's cybersecurity is under threat from these intensified attacks.

President Donald Trump stated he spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin about conflicts in Iran and Ukraine. NBC News reported that Putin offered U.S. assistance in the war with Iran.

Ukraine accuses Israel of receiving grain stolen by Russia from occupied territories. Israel's foreign minister denies the claim, stating there is no evidence of such a shipment arriving in Haifa.

A 141-meter Russian superyacht, linked to a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, navigated the Strait of Hormuz amid an ongoing blockade. The incident highlights geopolitical tensions in a strategically critical waterway.

Iran's foreign minister, Araghchi, is set to meet with Russian President Putin, while U.S. President Trump suggests Iranian leaders can initiate direct talks. The developments highlight ongoing diplomatic efforts involving Iran and key global players.

Russian oil exports are expected to decline to their lowest levels since 2023 as Ukraine disrupts ports and refineries. Despite a US sanctions waiver, the ongoing conflict and infrastructure damage are significantly impacting Russia's export capacity.

Poland's Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki questions U.S. loyalty to NATO in the event of a Russian attack, while U.S. President Donald Trump is reported to consider 'punishing' allies. The comments highlight tensions over transatlantic security commitments.

UK firms will face stricter export licence checks to prevent goods from reaching Russia via third countries, undermining sanctions. The move follows a Guardian report about a British company exporting machinery to an Armenian firm linked to Russia's war effort against Ukraine.