Putin says Russia is prevailing in ’righteous battle’ in Ukraine

Russia's finance minister, Anton Siluanov, has announced a VAT increase as a strategy to avoid government borrowing while attempting to ease monetary policy. This decision highlights the government's approach to managing economic challenges without increasing debt, which could have significant implications for the country's fiscal health and consumer prices.

TotalEnergies' CEO has indicated that if the European Union decides to ban Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports, the company may redirect these shipments to other global markets. This development is significant as it highlights the ongoing energy dynamics and the potential shifts in supply chains amid geopolitical tensions.

Tomahawk missiles are long-range, all-weather, subsonic cruise missiles used primarily by the United States Navy. Ukraine is seeking these advanced weapons to enhance its military capabilities amid ongoing conflict. The acquisition of Tomahawk missiles could significantly alter the dynamics of the battlefield, allowing Ukraine to strike targets deep within enemy territory. This request highlights Ukraine's ongoing struggle for defense and sovereignty, as it seeks to bolster its position against aggressors.

Russia is anticipating that its natural gas sales to China will be less profitable compared to its exports to Europe and Turkey. This shift highlights the challenges the Kremlin faces as it increasingly depends on China for its energy sales, raising concerns about the long-term viability of this strategy.

Russia is bracing for a significant downturn in its wartime budget as revenues from oil and gas are projected to fall to their lowest levels since the pandemic in 2020. This decline is attributed to decreasing fuel prices and a strengthening ruble, which could have serious implications for the country's economy and its ability to fund ongoing military operations. Understanding these shifts is crucial as they may affect not only Russia's financial stability but also its geopolitical strategies.

Russia's draft budget indicates a slight decrease in defense spending for 2026, reflecting potential shifts in military priorities and economic conditions. This change is significant as it may impact the country's military capabilities and strategic planning, especially in the context of ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico recently stood together at their border to push back against increasing pressure to abandon Russian oil. Their united front highlights the ongoing tensions in Europe regarding energy dependence on Russia, especially as many countries seek alternatives amid geopolitical challenges. This stance is significant as it reflects the complexities of energy politics in the region and the differing priorities of nations in balancing energy security with international relations.

Russia has dismissed Ukrainian President Zelenskiy's threats regarding bomb shelters for Kremlin officials, highlighting the ongoing tensions between the two nations. This dismissal reflects the strained diplomatic relations and the seriousness of the conflict, as both sides continue to engage in rhetoric that escalates the situation. Understanding these developments is crucial as they could impact international relations and security in the region.

In a brutal 12-hour assault, Ukraine faced a relentless barrage of nearly 500 drones and over 40 missiles, as reported by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This attack highlights the ongoing conflict and the severe impact it has on the Ukrainian people, raising concerns about the escalating violence and the humanitarian crisis that follows.

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has deeply intertwined with Russia's economy, suggesting that even if hostilities cease, the economic ramifications will persist. This situation is significant as it highlights how war can reshape a nation's financial landscape, potentially leading to long-term instability and challenges for the Russian populace.

Denmark has reported drone sightings near its military facilities, coinciding with NATO's warnings to Russia about potential airspace violations. This situation is significant as it highlights ongoing tensions in the region and raises concerns about security and surveillance, especially given the proximity of the sightings to Germany's Schleswig-Holstein state.

Russia's stock market faced a downturn as trading closed, with the MOEX Russia Index remaining unchanged. This stagnation reflects ongoing economic challenges and investor uncertainty in the region, which could impact future market performance and investor confidence.

Verizon is reportedly in discussions to acquire wireless spectrum from EchoStar, according to Bloomberg News. This potential deal could enhance Verizon's network capabilities and expand its service offerings, which is significant in the competitive telecommunications market. If successful, this acquisition may lead to improved connectivity for customers and strengthen Verizon's position as a leader in the industry.

IDT Corporation has reported disappointing results for its Q4 2025 earnings, falling short of analysts' expectations. This miss raises concerns about the company's financial health and future performance, which could impact investor confidence and stock prices. Understanding these results is crucial for stakeholders as they navigate the implications for the company's strategy moving forward.

South Korea's used car exports are thriving, providing a buffer against the impact of US tariffs on the automotive sector. This surge in exports not only highlights the resilience of South Korean manufacturers but also reflects a growing global demand for affordable vehicles. As trade relations evolve, this trend could bolster the economy and create new opportunities for local businesses, making it a significant development in the automotive landscape.

YouTube has agreed to pay $24.5 million to settle a lawsuit regarding the suspension of former President Donald Trump's account. This settlement is significant as it highlights the ongoing debates around social media platforms' power to regulate content and the implications for free speech. The resolution of this case may set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled in the future, impacting both users and platforms.

The potential US government shutdown poses significant risks, including the delay of the September jobs report and other crucial economic data. This matters because timely employment statistics are vital for understanding the health of the economy and guiding policy decisions. A shutdown could disrupt not only the release of this data but also the overall economic stability, affecting businesses and individuals alike.

Michael Saylor, the executive chairman of MicroStrategy, is making waves with the launch of their new Bitcoin-backed credit product called 'Stretch.' This innovative offering aims to eliminate the volatility and risk typically associated with Bitcoin, making it more accessible for investors. Saylor shared insights on The Close, revealing that MicroStrategy has already introduced four credit instruments this year, totaling an impressive $4 billion, with plans for more in the pipeline. This development is significant as it could reshape how investors engage with cryptocurrency, potentially leading to broader adoption.