American Soldier Sentenced in Russia

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Gordon Black sentenced to 3 years and 9 months in a Russian prison for stealing and threats of murder after a domestic dispute with his girlfriend in Vladivostok. Black travelled to Russia without clearance from the Pentagon. Complicates U.S.-Russia relations amid tensions in Ukraine.

Russian Warships Arrive in Cuban Waters Amid Tensions Over Ukraine Conflict

Russian warships arrived off Cuban waters ahead of planned military exercises, sending a message to the West amid tensions over the war in Ukraine. President Biden met with Ukraine President Zelenskyy in Paris.

Tensions between Russia and European Leaders After EU Election Results

The EU election results have caused tension between Russia and European leaders, particularly French President Macron, with Russia criticizing Macron's actions in Ukraine and the rise of far-right parties across Europe.

American Soldier on Trial in Russia for Theft

American soldier, Staff Sgt. Gordon Black, is on trial in Russia for stealing from his girlfriend while visiting Vladivostok. The incident has complicated U.S.-Russia relations amid tensions over the conflict in Ukraine.

Corruption in Russian Military

Russian deputy chief of military staff arrested on bribery charges, following a series of similar arrests of high-ranking military officials. The arrests are part of a crackdown on corruption within the Russian military.

Russian President Putin's Speech on Victory Day and Ukraine Conflict

Russian President Vladimir Putin accuses the West of risking a global conflict and asserts no one will be allowed to threaten Russia as the country marks Victory Day. Putin casts the war in Ukraine as part of a struggle with the West, claiming Russia will prevent a global clash but will not allow any threats to its sovereignty.

Russian Recruitment of Cuban Nationals for Ukraine Conflict

Russia has been recruiting Cuban nationals to bolster its forces in Ukraine, offering high pay and passports. The recruitment helps offset Russian troop losses in the conflict and leverages historical ties between Russia and Cuba. Many Cubans were enticed by the prospect of lucrative contracts and Russian citizenship, but some may have been deceived about the job's nature.

Inauguration of Vladimir Putin for Fifth Term as Russian President

Vladimir Putin inaugurated for a record-breaking fifth term as Russian President, amidst difficult period with Western sanctions over Ukraine conflict. Ceremony included military procession and Orthodox prayer service. Putin vows victory and stronger Russia. International observers criticize election. Putin faces challenges including economic issues and discontent over war efforts.

Russian Soldier Shootings in Eastern Ukraine

Russian soldier suspected of shooting dead six comrades in eastern Ukraine, while another officer is on trial for killing seven soldiers under his command. There are claims of low morale among Russian troops due to various reasons. Moscow's war effort has involved convicts serving for freedom. The soldier on the run, Yuri G., may have an AK-12 assault rifle. The trial of the former platoon commander, Dmitry Lobovikov, involves him throwing a grenade, killing seven soldiers. His defense claims the incident was accidental due to a combination of sedatives and alcohol.

Russia Recruiting Cuban Nationals for Ukraine Conflict

Russia has been recruiting Cuban nationals to bolster its forces in the Ukraine conflict, offering high pay and passports. The historical ties between Russia and Cuba make recruitment easier, with many enticed by lucrative army contracts and the chance to gain Russian citizenship. Some Cuban recruits may have been deceived about the job's nature, highlighting the difficulties faced by foreigners in conflict zones.

Russian Military Drills with Tactical Nuclear Weapons in Response to Western Statements

Russia announces plans to conduct military drills with tactical nuclear weapons in response to what it perceives as provocative statements and threats from Western officials. This move is seen as an attempt to intimidate and maintain readiness for potential conflict.

Conflict over REPO Act and Ukraine War

House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul accuses Sen. J.D. Vance of repeating Biden administration talking points regarding the REPO Act and its impact on Ukraine conflict. Vance warns that the bill could limit U.S. negotiating leverage and hinder Trump's diplomacy in Europe during a second term.

Russian Presidential Election and Vladimir Putin's Victory

Vladimir Putin wins a landslide victory in a stage-managed Russian presidential election with no real opposition, extending his rule for at least six more years amidst crackdowns on dissent and suspicion of fraud. The result was dismissed as neither free nor fair by Western leaders, while those who oppose Putin face persecution and exile. Putin's approval ratings remain high despite ongoing conflicts with the West and internal repression.

Russian Volunteers Cross-Border Raid into Russia

Russian volunteers fighting for Ukraine launched a cross-border raid into Russia, capturing a village and clashing with Moscow security services. The raid coincided with Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian oil refineries. The volunteers aim to liberate Ukraine from Russian invaders and Putin's dictatorship.

Arrest Warrants Issued for Russian Military Officers in Ukraine Conflict

The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for two high-ranking Russian military officers for directing attacks on civilian infrastructure in Ukraine. Russian forces have repeatedly targeted Ukrainian infrastructure. Russia refuses to hand over suspects to face trial in The Hague.

Russian Threats of Nuclear War Over Ukraine Conflict

Top Putin ally warns the West against helping Ukraine reclaim territory, threatening nuclear strikes on Western capitals and an apocalyptic civil war in Russia with millions dead. Medvedev warns of global war if Russia's borders are pushed back to 1991 levels.