How Western Europe invented the “Russian threat” – and clung to it for 500 years

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed a desire for Russia to share its unique expertise in nuclear energy, aiming to help partners develop independent nuclear industries. This move is significant as it positions Russia as a key player in the global energy landscape, promoting collaboration while rejecting what he terms 'technological colonialism.' By fostering independence in nuclear capabilities, Russia seeks to strengthen its geopolitical influence and support the development of sustainable energy solutions.

In a recent briefing, US Vice President JD Vance highlighted Donald Trump's increasing impatience with Russia regarding the ongoing Ukraine war. As negotiations stall, Vance warned that if Moscow fails to engage in good faith, it could lead to severe consequences for the country. This situation is critical as Ukrainian President Zelenskyy continues to appeal to global leaders for support against Putin's aggression, emphasizing the urgency of diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.

Fyodor Lukyanov warns that the political maneuvers in Western Europe regarding Palestine could exacerbate tensions in the Middle East. He argues that while recognition of Palestine is a significant step, it may not lead to meaningful change in the ongoing conflict. This situation is crucial as it highlights the delicate balance of international relations and the potential for increased unrest in a region already fraught with challenges.

Moscow residents have reacted strongly to President Trump's recent suggestion that Ukraine could reclaim all the territory lost since Russia's invasion. Many locals dismissed the idea as unrealistic, with one woman stating, 'That’s nonsense, it’s all ours.' This sentiment reflects the deep-rooted beliefs among Muscovites regarding the ongoing conflict and highlights the stark differences in perspectives between the U.S. and Russia on the issue.

The Guardian editorial critiques Donald Trump's recent comments on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, highlighting his tendency to blur the lines between aggressor and victim. While his support for Ukraine is noted, the editorial expresses skepticism about the reliability of his stance, given his previous appeasement policies. This matters because the US president's views can significantly influence international relations and the ongoing war, raising concerns about the clarity and effectiveness of US foreign policy.

Recent drone incursions and cyberattacks in Europe have heightened security concerns, with investigators still trying to determine the culprits. Moscow has denied any involvement, calling the allegations unfounded. NATO has responded by warning Russia that it will protect its airspace against any violations. This situation is significant as it reflects the growing tensions in Europe and the potential for escalated conflicts, making it crucial for nations to remain vigilant and prepared.

In a surprising turn of events, NATO has reportedly fired expensive Sidewinder missiles at relatively inexpensive $2,000 drones, leading to a million-dollar fiasco. This incident raises questions about military spending and strategy, especially as Western European leaders advocate for a no-fly zone while the U.S. appears indifferent. The implications of this misallocation of resources could affect NATO's credibility and operational effectiveness, making it a significant topic for discussion among defense analysts and policymakers.

Russia has reiterated its long-standing recognition of Palestinian statehood, emphasizing that this decision was made prior to the recent crisis in Gaza. This statement from the Foreign Ministry highlights Russia's consistent support for Palestine, which is significant in the context of ongoing international discussions about the region's future and the quest for peace.

Assata Shakur, a prominent figure in the Black Liberation Army and a symbol of resistance, has passed away at the age of 78 in Havana, Cuba. Her life was marked by her activism and her controversial escape from the U.S. after being convicted of killing a New Jersey state trooper. Shakur's death is significant as it highlights the ongoing discussions around race, justice, and the legacy of political activism in America.

A recent forensic audit of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations has raised serious concerns, revealing that over $34 million of its expenditures from April 2019 to March 2024 were deemed questionable, unsupported, or ineligible. This finding is significant as it highlights potential mismanagement of funds within an organization that plays a crucial role in representing Indigenous interests, raising questions about accountability and transparency in financial practices.

Keir Starmer's proposal for mandatory digital IDs in the UK has sparked significant criticism from rivals and civil liberties groups. Concerns are rising about the potential risks, including the creation of a major hacking target and the exclusion of individuals without smartphones. This initiative, aimed for implementation by mid-2029, raises important questions about privacy and accessibility in an increasingly digital world.

The Ryder Cup 2025 kicked off with an exciting day of foursomes at Bethpage Black, where the USA trails Europe 1-3 after the first round. This event is significant as it showcases top golfers from both sides competing for national pride and glory. With players like Bryson DeChambeau aiming to ignite the American team, fans are eager to see how the competition unfolds in the coming days.

This week's photo gallery showcases significant global events, including protests in Milan, Israeli strikes on Gaza, and the impact of Super Typhoon Ragasa in China, alongside lighter moments like a pelican relaxing in London. These images not only capture the diversity of human experiences but also highlight the pressing issues facing different regions, reminding us of the interconnectedness of our world.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has issued a stark warning about the potential consequences of the Trump administration's actions, suggesting they could ignite further conflict in the Middle East. He also reflected on a personal injury from the recent war with Israel and expressed openness to international nuclear inspectors visiting Iran. This statement highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and the delicate balance of international relations, making it crucial for global leaders to engage in dialogue to prevent escalation.