Russia flexes nuclear muscles as Ukraine tensions rise Russia has commenced large-scale nuclear military exercises with Belarus, involving missile systems and submarines. AAP · May 22
Ukraine war briefing: Oil plant strikes all going to plan, says Zelenskyy Ukrainian drones ignite Syzran oil refinery deep inside Russia; ISW says Ukraine regaining the initiative on frontline. What we know on day 1,549 The Guardian - AU · May 22
Iran nimbler at rebuilding drones, missile capabilities than US expected: Report US intelligence indicates Iran is rapidly rebuilding its drone production capabilities, exceeding anticipated timelines. This swift reconstitution of military assets, supported by Russia and China, suggests Iran remains a persistent regional threat, contradicting US claims of decimated capabilities. The rebuilding efforts are partly attributed to the perceived limited damage inflicted… The Economic Times · May 22
The far right is surging in France, Germany and parts of Europe. What will this mean for Ukraine? In recent local elections in the United Kingdom and Australia, right-wing populism has appeared to be on the march. Support has surged for the Reform UK and One Nation parties. The Conversation · May 22
Russia is hacking its way onto social media platform Bluesky to spread disinformation, company says As many as 2,000 posts have been removed since they began showing up in waves in April, according to a new report The Independent UK · May 21
Crude Oil Prices Tumble on Hopes for Iran Peace Progress July WTI crude oil (CLN26 ) on Thursday closed down -1.91 (-1.94%), and July RBOB gasoline (RBN26 ) closed down -0.1073 (-3.17%). Crude oil and gasoline prices erased an early rally on Thursday and settled sharply lower, with gasoline falling to a 2-week low. Crude prices tumbled on hopes that... Barchart · May 21
Bangkok Post · May 21 A fluid global geostrategic chessboard More geostrategic roads are undeniably leading to Beijing. Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to the Chinese capital this week and his summit meeting with President Xi Jinping should be viewed both in conjunction with and in contrast to American President Donald Trump's similar outing less than a week earlier.
The Independent UK · May 21 Ukraine war briefing: Fears as Russia deploys nuclear weapons to Belarus IN FULL
The Economic Times · May 21 Russia flexes nuclear muscles as tensions rise with NATO Russia is conducting large-scale nuclear drills involving thousands of personnel. These exercises include missile tests and the issuance of nuclear munitions to units. President Putin stated these weapons are an extreme measure of last resort. The drills occur amidst rising global tensions and concerns over drone activity in the Baltic…
The Economic Times · May 21 Ukraine boosts border security with Belarus over attack fears Ukraine is increasing security along its border with Belarus. This comes amid concerns that Russia might launch a new attack from Belarusian territory. Ukraine's security service is implementing enhanced measures. Russia and Belarus are conducting joint nuclear drills. Ukrainian President Zelensky stated Ukraine is preparing for all enemy actions.