In August 2021, the U.S. withdrew from Afghanistan, leaving a power vacuum quickly filled by the Taliban. While the West turned away, Russia and China opted for diplomacy. This July, Moscow officially recognized the Taliban government, a former enemy once labeled terrorist. The move marks a major geopolitical shift, as Russia seeks influence in Central Asia and challenges Western dominance—betting on stability through cooperation, not war.

Ukraine’s new Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko faces the dual challenge of reforming the war-torn economy while maintaining the political direction set by President Zelensky. As a trusted ally and seasoned economic strategist, she is expected to deepen cooperation with Western allies, boost domestic arms production, and reduce reliance on foreign military aid—all while preparing the country for both prolonged conflict and eventual peace.

The war in Ukraine has reached a prolonged stalemate with no major offensives but continued heavy fighting. While Trump and Putin negotiate, both sides are trying to gain leverage. Russia pushes in the east, aiming for key territories like Pokrovsk and Sumy, while Ukraine counters with innovation and growing domestic arms production. With U.S. aid uncertain and Europe stepping up, both sides seek stronger positions ahead of a possible ceasefire.

Russia and Iran ink a strategic pact, deepening ties as both navigate high-stakes negotiations with Washington and the West.

Trump-Putin talks on Ukraine: 30-day energy grid truce. Zelenskyy excluded, Kyiv refuses concessions. War ongoing. #Ukraine #Trump #Putin

Putin seeks more than Ukrainian land from Trump: sanctions relief, economic gains, and Western division could be the real prize.