Flattery gets you nowhere: A former Moscow station chief on Trump and Putin

Bulgaria is stepping up as a key player in international diplomacy by offering an air corridor for Vladimir Putin to meet Donald Trump in Hungary. This move could facilitate dialogue between the two leaders, potentially easing tensions and fostering cooperation. It's significant because such high-level meetings can lead to important discussions on global issues, and Bulgaria's involvement highlights its strategic role in European affairs.

The planned meeting between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Budapest has raised concerns among European leaders, particularly French President Emmanuel Macron. While Macron acknowledges the importance of dialogue, he emphasizes that Ukrainians and Europeans must be part of the conversation. Expert Marc Loustau warns that such a meeting could undermine Europe's unity and its ability to influence the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, highlighting the delicate balance of power in the region.

In a recent call, Russia's Sergei Lavrov and US Senator Marco Rubio discussed the upcoming summit between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump. This conversation comes after a tense meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, where Trump backed away from sending long-range missiles to Ukraine. The summit is significant as it could shape future US-Russia relations and impact Ukraine's security situation.

The Kremlin has announced that Hungary will host the next summit between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump, as explained by spokesman Dmitry Peskov. This decision is significant as it highlights Hungary's role in international diplomacy and the ongoing relationship between Russia and the United States. The choice of venue may also reflect strategic interests and the desire for a neutral ground for discussions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described his recent meeting with US President Donald Trump as 'positive', despite not securing the Tomahawk missiles that could significantly aid Ukraine. This meeting highlights the ongoing diplomatic efforts and the complex dynamics between the US, Ukraine, and Russia. Zelenskyy pointed out that while Trump did not commit to sending the missiles, there remains a strong American interest in fostering economic ties with Kyiv. This situation underscores the importance of international pressure on Russia to engage in serious peace negotiations.

In a surprising shift, Donald Trump has urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to negotiate a deal with Russia, which could undermine Ukraine's aspirations for US military support, particularly Tomahawk missiles. This change comes just a month after Trump expressed strong backing for Ukraine's territorial integrity. His upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin raises concerns about the future of US-Ukraine relations and the ongoing conflict, making it a critical moment for both nations.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is set to visit the White House on Monday, marking a significant moment in US-Australian relations. This visit highlights the ongoing collaboration between the two nations, especially in the context of Indo-Pacific security. Experts like Michael Fullilove emphasize the importance of this relationship, suggesting that it could lead to stronger alliances and shared strategies in addressing regional challenges.

The ongoing power vacuum in Gaza is creating significant challenges for the ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas. NPR's Leila Fadel discusses these complexities with Stephen Farrell, co-author of 'Hamas: The Quest For Power.' Understanding this power struggle is crucial as it impacts the stability of the region and the prospects for lasting peace.

George Springer's impressive three-run home run against the Seattle Mariners has propelled the Toronto Blue Jays into the MLB World Series for the first time in 32 years. This historic moment not only highlights Springer's talent but also marks a significant achievement for the franchise, reigniting excitement among fans and showcasing the team's potential on a grand stage.

In recent news, China has accused the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) of illegally entering its airspace during a flare incident, raising tensions between the two nations. Meanwhile, ANZ has announced that all services have returned to normal following a recent outage. These developments are significant as they highlight ongoing diplomatic challenges in the region while also addressing operational stability in Australia's banking sector.

In Portland, Oregon, pro-immigration protesters clashed with federal agents outside an ICE facility, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policies. This incident matters as it reflects the deep divisions in public opinion on immigration enforcement and the role of federal agencies, sparking discussions about civil rights and community safety.

Prince Andrew remains a prominent figure in the news, with ongoing discussions about his connections to the palace. Meanwhile, a significant tech outage has affected users globally, raising questions about the reliability of major tech companies. This dual focus highlights the intersection of royal affairs and modern technology, making it a noteworthy topic for both royal watchers and tech enthusiasts.

In a historic move, Japan's parliament has voted in the country's first-ever female Prime Minister, marking a significant milestone in gender equality and representation in politics. This groundbreaking decision not only reflects changing societal attitudes but also paves the way for more inclusive leadership in Japan, inspiring future generations of women to pursue political careers.

The chess community is mourning the unexpected death of a talented grandmaster at just 29 years old. This tragic loss not only highlights the fragility of life but also serves as a reminder of the impact one individual can have on the sport. The grandmaster's contributions to chess were significant, inspiring many young players and elevating the game's profile. As tributes pour in, it’s clear that their legacy will continue to influence the chess world for years to come.