Putin hosts Syrian president in Kremlin

Russia's PROD Olympiad is inviting English-speaking students in grades 8-12 from around the world to participate in the inaugural international IT Olympiad. This event focuses on industrial software and real IT business challenges, aiming to engage young developers in practical applications of their skills.

On November 13, 2025, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine reached its 1,358th day. This ongoing war has significant implications for regional stability, international relations, and humanitarian conditions in Ukraine. The prolonged nature of the conflict continues to affect the lives of millions and shapes geopolitical dynamics worldwide.

Two senior Ukrainian ministers resigned amid a widening corruption investigation that has implicated members of President Volodymyr Zelensky's inner circle. This situation complicates Zelensky's political standing as Russia continues its military advances, raising concerns about governance and accountability in Ukraine during a critical time.

Six Roman-era statues were stolen from Syria's National Museum in Damascus, highlighting ongoing cultural heritage threats in the region. This theft underscores the vulnerability of historical artifacts amidst the turmoil in Syria, raising concerns about the preservation of its rich history.

A $100-million graft scandal has exposed systemic corruption in Ukraine under President Zelensky, prompting renewed scrutiny of governance in Kiev. This scandal highlights the challenges Ukraine faces in addressing corruption, which has been a longstanding issue and is now more visible than ever.

Recent drone sightings, escalating threats, and an arms race in Europe have raised concerns about a potential conflict with Russia. These developments highlight the fragile state of Europe-Russia relations and the increasing tensions that could lead to war, making it a critical issue for regional stability.

The Kremlin has explained the failure of a British attempt to establish a backchannel for dialogue, stating that London disregarded Moscow's stance on Ukraine. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized that this oversight contributed to the unsuccessful effort to reopen communication between the two nations. The incident highlights ongoing tensions and the complexities of diplomatic relations amid the Ukraine conflict, underscoring the challenges faced in achieving constructive dialogue.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa emphasized the strategic interests between Syria and Russia, highlighting Syria's reliance on Russia's support, particularly its vote in the UN Security Council. This relationship is significant as it underscores Syria's geopolitical positioning and the importance of international alliances in the context of ongoing conflicts in the region.