The Latest Breaking News from Russia

Six Bulgarians jailed after spying for Russia in UK

Ringleader Orlin Roussev sentenced to nearly 11 years for his role in operations that put lives and national security at risk

The Guardian - UK · May 12, 2025

‘No James Bond activity on my end,’ ringleader of Russian spy ring told police

In a police interview in February 2023, Orlin Roussev denied having any links to the Kremlin.

Evening Standard · May 12, 2025

France derides Russia’s false claim of drug use by Macron, Merz and Starmer

Élysée warns against Kremlin’s disinformation efforts after ‘cocaine’ conspiracy theory spreads online

The Guardian - UK · May 12, 2025

Ukraine’s allies pile pressure on Putin to join Zelensky for peace talks

The Foreign Secretary hosted his counterparts from from France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Poland and the EU on Monday to discuss Ukraine.

Evening Standard · May 12, 2025

Fact check: Macron, Merz and Starmer targeted by Russian 'cocaine' claims

The allegations that the leaders of France, Germany and the UK took drugs while on a train on their way to Kyiv are part of a wider Russian disinformation campaign.

Euronews · May 12, 2025

Poland To Close Russian Consulate In Krakow Over 'Sabotage'

Poland's top diplomat said on Monday he ordered the closure of a Russian consulate over "sabotage", after authorities accused Russia of orchestrating a fire that destroyed a Warsaw shopping centre last year.

International Business Times · May 12, 2025

Russia’s contradictory messaging on Pope Francis’s death — and the strategy behind it

Exclusive: Analysis seen by The Independent found inconsistent messaging across Russian state-run outlets in the days following the death of Pope Francis, which analysts say could have been part of a geopolitical strategy

The Independent UK · May 12, 2025

Setback for Europe after Trump insists Ukraine has ‘immediate’ peace talks with Russia

Zelenskyy had no choice but to accept Putin’s invitation to talks, diplomats say

The Guardian - UK · May 12, 2025

Will Zelensky empty-chair Putin in front of Trump after calling Russia’s bluff on peace talks?

ANALYSIS: As Turkey offers to mediate between Russia and Ukraine on Thursday and Donald Trump hints he may come too, chief international correspondent Bel Trew looks at how the week might unfurl

The Independent UK · May 12, 2025

Macron rubbishes cocaine train claims: ‘Fake news spread by France’s enemies’

France claims Russia’s military intelligence has stepped up efforts to spread disinformation about European leaders online

The Independent UK · May 12, 2025