Russia expected to grow faster than all advanced economies, IMF says
Published an hour ago
Russia’s economy is expected to grow faster than all advanced economies this year, according to the International Monetary Fund. The IMF predicts that Russia will grow by 3.2% in 2024, exceeding the growth rates forecast for the U.S. (2.7%), the U.K. (0.5%), Germany (0.2%), and France (0.7%). This growth is even more impressive given the economic sanctions imposed on Russia due to its invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Russia has claimed that these sanctions have increased its self-reliance and have led to the expansion of its military-industrial complex. Additionally, continued oil and commodity exports to countries like India and China have helped Russia maintain its oil export revenues.
Putin warns against escalation in first comments on Iran-Israel conflict
Published 2 hours ago
Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for restraint in the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. In a phone conversation with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Putin expressed hope that all sides would exercise sensible restraint and avoid further escalation. Putin emphasized that the unresolved Palestinian-Israeli conflict is the root cause of the current developments in the Middle East. Russia continues to advocate for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the establishment of conditions for a political and diplomatic resolution to the crisis. Russia and Iran have become closer allies, particularly since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Russian military death toll passes 50,000, BBC says
Published 2 hours ago
The Russian military death toll in Ukraine has surpassed 50,000, according to a report by the BBC. More than 27,300 Russian soldiers died in the conflict’s second year, as territorial gains came at a significant cost. The figure provided by the BBC is eight times higher than Russia’s official public acknowledgment of its fatalities. However, experts believe the actual death toll among Russian fighters is even higher, as the figure does not include deaths of separatist militias in eastern Ukraine who are believed to be backed by Russia.
Yellen says U.S. debate about Ukraine aid could encourage Russia
Published 17 hours ago
U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has warned that the ongoing debate about aid for Ukraine could potentially encourage Russia. Yellen expressed concern that Russia may perceive the U.S. and its allies as tiring and finding it more difficult to support Ukraine, thus believing it can outlast them. Yellen stressed the importance of the U.S. Congress providing military and budget support to Ukraine. The passing of a Ukraine aid bill has been stalled in the House of Representatives for months. Yellen also highlighted the need to find a way to unlock funds frozen by the U.S. and its allies, as well as the risks and manageable situations that could arise.
Moscow terrorist attackers linked to ‘Ukrainian nationalists,’ Russian security chief claims
Published 19 hours ago
Russian Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev has claimed that the perpetrators of the terrorist attack on the Crocus City Hall in Moscow were linked to Ukrainian nationalists. Patrushev asserted that investigations had confirmed the connection between the attackers and Ukrainian nationalists. Although no proof has been offered to support these claims and ISIS has claimed responsibility for the attack, high-profile Russian officials have been targeting Ukraine and its allies for the attack. Patrushev vowed that those responsible would face punishment. Ukraine and its allies have dismissed these claims as nonsensical and lacking evidence.
Ukraine ‘ran out of missiles’ to stop Russian strike on power plant
Published 19 hours ago
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has revealed that Ukraine had exhausted its supply of missiles during a Russian strike on a thermal power plant. Zelenskyy stated that during the attack, eleven missiles were launched, with the first seven successfully intercepted, but the remaining four destroyed the power plant. This incident highlights Ukraine’s desperate need for air defenses. The destruction of the Trypilska power plant has had a significant impact on the region’s electricity supply. Ukraine is currently awaiting the approval of a major aid package worth $61 billion from the U.S.
Xi lays out four priorities to resolve Ukraine ‘crisis’
Published 21 hours ago
Chinese President Xi Jinping has outlined four priorities to prevent further deterioration of the Ukraine crisis. He urged countries to prioritize peace and stability, reduce tensions, create conditions for restoring peace, and mitigate negative impacts on the global economy and supply chains. China, a close ally and economic partner of Russia, has described the conflict as a crisis and has refrained from condemning Russia’s actions. This statement from President Xi came after talks with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz during a recent visit to China to strengthen trade ties.
Russian forces pummel east Ukraine in bid to advance on Chasiv Yar, officials say
Published 21 hours ago
Russian forces continue to escalate their attacks in eastern Ukraine, aiming to advance further into the Donetsk region. Ukraine’s armed forces have been suffering from shortages, both in manpower and materiel, making it challenging to hold off Russian offensives. The Ukrainian military’s commander-in-chief has identified Chasiv Yar as a potential target for Russian forces, with the objective of seizing the town by May 9. Ukraine has responded by reinforcing defensive positions and providing additional ammunition and resources to its brigades. The situation on the eastern front has significantly worsened in recent days according to military officials.
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