Russian Regions Evacuated Due to Ukrainian Forces Advancing

Authorities in Russia's Kursk and Belgorod regions ordered the evacuation of areas near the border with Ukraine as Kyiv's forces advanced into Russian territory. Over 76,000 people have been relocated to safe places in the Kursk region. Russia's Defense Ministry claimed to have repelled Ukraine's attempt to enter the Belovsky district.

Corruption Scandals in Russia and Arrests of High-Ranking Military Officials

The U.N.'s High Representative for Disarmament Affairs cautioned states involved in transferring arms to Ukraine or Russia to act responsibly as the war shows no signs of stopping. Corruption scandals in Russia have led to arrests of high-ranking military officials, raising questions about Putin's control over the Defense Ministry amid the war in Ukraine. The recent arrests are not a 'campaign' against corruption but rather reflect ongoing activities in 'all government bodies.'

Russia's proposed changes to territorial waters in the Baltic Sea

Russia's Defense Ministry proposes updating the coordinates of its territorial waters in the Baltic Sea, causing concern among Baltic Sea leaders. The proposal was later denied by Russia's Interfax news agency.

Challenges in Recruiting Women in Japan's Military

Japan is struggling to recruit women in its military due to a culture of harassment and ineffective training. Despite pledges to take action, the defense ministry has not centralized oversight of anti-harassment training. Experts criticize the current training as superficial and ineffective. Calls for increased recruitment of women come as Japan faces rising threats from China, North Korea, and Russia.

Corruption in Russian Defense Ministry

Senior Defense Ministry official in Russia arrested on bribery charges, days after President Putin replaced the defense minister in a Cabinet shake-up. The new defense minister is expected to carry out further purges at the ministry.

Corruption Scandal in Russia's Defense Ministry

The head of personnel at Russia’s Defense Ministry has been arrested on suspicion of bribery after more than $1 million in cash and valuables were discovered at his properties. This is part of a wider corruption scandal within the Russian government involving several high-ranking officials.

Putin's Defense and Security Team Shuffle for Conflict in Ukraine

President Putin shuffles defense and security team to mobilize Russia's war economy for conflict in Ukraine against the West. Belousov appointed as new defense minister, Shoigu transferred to security council role. Historical references to former US Defense Secretary McNamara's military procurement overhaul. Putin aims to achieve minimum war goal of seizing full control of eastern Ukraine's Donbas region. Defense spending surging to historically high levels. Russian economy transforming into a war economy.