Russia Carries Out Largest Prisoner Exchange with Western Countries
On August 1, a major prisoner exchange took place in the Turkish capital Ankara. This large-scale exchange operation between Russia, the United States, Germany and Belarus was widely reported in the world press. In the operation coordinated by the Turkish National Intelligence Organization (MIT), 16 people were handed over to Western countries, while 10 Russian citizens returned to their countries. The first information about the operation was announced by İhlas News Agency (İHA). The White House confirmed the operation involving the United States, Germany, Poland, Slovenia and Turkey. The exchange was carried out after Russian President Vladimir Putin granted amnesty to 13 people. Among the prominent names were The Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, former US Marine Paul Whelan, German mercenary Rico Krieger, Russian dissident Ilya Yashin and Russian Federal Security Service officer Vadim Krasikov. While US President Joe Biden praised the diplomatic success, experts said the exchange was an important development in strained relations between Russia and the West, but may not lead to a long-term improvement. Considered the largest prisoner swap since the Soviet era, the operation has sparked debate over whether it will bring about a lasting change in relations.
Consequences of Israel's Elimination of Hamas Leaders
On August 1, the Israel Defense Forces announced that an airstrike in the Gaza Strip on July 13 neutralized Mohammed al-Deif, the commander of the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of the radical Palestinian group “Hamas”. The announcement was made during the funeral of Ismail Haniyeh, the head of Hamas' political bureau, following his assassination in the Iranian capital Tehran on July 31. Ed-Deif founded the military wing of “Hamas” in the early 1990s and remained its leader until his death. Under his leadership, it carried out numerous terrorist attacks against Israelis, including suicide bombings, and built an extensive network of tunnels and an arsenal of rockets. Israeli media reported that Ed-Deif was one of the masterminds of the October 7, 2023 Hamas terrorist attack on Israel in which some 250 people were taken hostage. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant said that this operation would accelerate the collapse of “Hamas” and that the terrorists would either be destroyed or surrender. However, Iran's new President Massoud Pezeshkian and senior officials have vowed to retaliate for the killing of Haniyeh. Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has reportedly ordered a direct attack on Israel. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called on Iran to refrain from retaliatory actions. In light of these developments, Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu has emphasized that his country will resolutely fight against radical groups and will not bow to internal or external pressures. On the other hand, experts emphasize that the elimination of “Hamas” leaders could create a political and ideological vacuum among the Palestinians and encourage the group's supporters to wage a new struggle. In addition, experts say that such actions could lead Iran and Hezbollah to increase their power against Israel.
US and EU threaten to hold Maduro accountable if he does not hand over power
The US and the EU have warned President Nicolás Maduro of responsibility for the transfer of power in Venezuela. In a statement endorsed by the chairs of the foreign affairs committees of the Czech Republic, Belgium, Denmark, Estonia and other countries, Western governments said they could hold Maduro, who won the elections, accountable if he does not ensure a peaceful transition of power. The statement condemned the disregard of the will of the voters and the repression of the people following the elections in Venezuela. It called on Maduro to organize an independent audit of the election results and stop the crackdown on the opposition. It also emphasized the need for negotiations between Maduro and opposition candidate Edmundo González Urrutia to ensure a peaceful and democratic transition of power. The US and other Western governments said they would hold Maduro accountable if he continued to ignore the democratic will of Venezuelan voters. In the July 28 presidential elections, current President Maduro triumphed with 51.95% of the vote, but the results have not been fully announced as of August 3. The United States has recognized the opposition candidate González as the winner of the elections.
Protest Against Immigration Policies in the UK
Protests against immigration policies in the UK have turned into clashes with police and riots in many cities. The official cause of the protests is the murder of three children in Southport. The young man arrested on suspicion of being the perpetrator of the crime had immigrated to the UK from Africa with his family. The new UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, described the events as “ultra-right-wing thuggery” and promised that those involved, especially those who incited online, would be brought to justice.
Bangladesh Prime Minister Resigns and Leaves the Country
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajid has resigned and left the country following large-scale protests across the country. According to Al Jazeera, Hasina left in a military helicopter after a raid on her official residence in the capital Dhaka. On August 4, protests intensified, killing nearly 100 people, with a total of 300 people killed, culminating in protesters calling for a march on Dhaka. When news of Hasina's departure was announced on August 5, celebrations erupted in the streets, with protesters calling it a “second independence”. General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced that he had begun negotiations with political parties, particularly the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), and announced the formation of an interim government. The protests, which began in July, initially started as a student movement but spread across the country. The protesters opposed a quota system that allocated 30 percent of government posts to family members of veterans of the 1971 war of independence and accused the government of failing to tackle unemployment. Demanding Hasina's resignation, these protests turned into violent riots and led to a nationwide curfew and restricted mobile internet access.
Ukraine comes into conflict with the governments of West African countries
Ukraine's relations with West African countries have come to the fore with the recent diplomatic crisis. Allegations that Ukraine is aiding rebels in Mali have been fueled by the statements of the Chief Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry (GUER MO). On July 29, in an interview aired on Ukrainian television Suspilne, GUER MO official Andriy Yusov stated that Ukraine was providing information to Tuareg rebels in military operations against Russia's Wagner Group and Malian government forces. These statements provoked a strong reaction from the Malian government; Abdoulaye Maïga, the former Deputy Prime Minister of Mali, characterized this aid as support for international terrorism. In addition, social media posts by Yuriy Pivovarov, Ukraine's ambassador to Senegal, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast and Liberia, were also criticized by the Malian authorities. Ukraine said that the accusations were unfounded and that Mali's decision to sever diplomatic ties was hasty and called for the situation to be rectified. These developments are seen as a diplomatic problem that complicates Ukraine's strategic goals in Africa.
Shoigu Visits Iran and Azerbaijan
On August 6, Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu met with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Baku. During the meeting, several bilateral agreements were discussed, including in the security, transportation, energy and military-technical fields. Aliyev emphasized that relations between Russia and Azerbaijan are important for the security of the South Caucasus, while Shoigu drew attention to the development of the “North-South” international transport corridor. Shoigu also met with Iranian President-elect Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran and held talks on tensions between Iran and Israel.
US and Australia Produce New Long-Range Missiles
The United States and Australia are about to agree on the joint production of the high-precision GMLRS (Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System) and the new Precision Strike Missile (PrSM). US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced this development after 2+2 format talks in Annapolis. According to the agreement, production of GMLRS missiles will begin in Australia by 2025 and the production, procurement and development of PrSM will be supported. GMLRS missiles offer a range of 80 km, while PrSM missiles are capable of ranges in excess of 500 km. In addition, the US has plans to expand its military presence in Australia on a rotational basis. This reflects US strategic diversionary efforts against China and its own cost-cutting strategies. While tensions over China persist, US-Australian cooperation is more about reducing US military costs and increasing its market advantage in Australia, without affecting the balance of power in the region.
Third Day of the Battle in the Kursk Region
As the conflict continues into its third day, the Ukrainian Armed Forces' attacks on the Kursk region are concentrated in the border areas. Russia's “Northern” troops and the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation are conducting operations against Ukraine's 22nd and 25th mechanized brigades and anti-terrorist units in the bordering Sudzhansky and Korenyevsky districts. The Russian Defense Ministry announced an effective attack on Ukrainian live forces and equipment in the village of Darievka. It was also reported that on August 7, a monastery in the area was destroyed in an airstrike and 17 people were evacuated. In total, 66 people were injured and four civilians were killed in the clashes. Around 3,000 people were evacuated in the Kursk region, while it was announced that evacuees would be paid 10,000 rubles. While it is claimed that this attack by Ukraine was made to strengthen its positions in the negotiations, it was stated that the EU and the US will continue their support for Ukraine. Experts assessing the regional situation in Russia predict that such attacks will not drastically change the overall course of the war.
Russia Calls on Israel to Avoid Attacks on Civilian Targets
Russia has invited Israel to avoid attacks on civilian targets. Maria Zakharova, the Director of the Information and Press Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry, responded to Israel's airstrike on a school in Gaza. Zakharova stated that over 2,000 refugees were present in the school at the time of the attack, which resulted in more than 100 deaths, numerous injuries, and some individuals being buried under rubble. Russia expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and emphasized the need to adhere to international humanitarian law. Zakharova noted that such attacks targeting civilians in Gaza occur systematically and urged Israel to avoid attacking civilian targets. She also pointed out that 13 refugee centers had been targeted in the past month, stating that such tragedies undermine international efforts and negatively affect the process of ending the conflict. Zakharova called for the immediate implementation of UN Security Council and General Assembly resolutions, demanding the establishment of a long-term ceasefire and the provision of humanitarian aid. Israel, on the other hand, stated that the attack on the Gaza school targeted a site used by Hamas as a command center and that various measures were taken to minimize civilian damage.
Protest Against Lithium Mining in Serbia
On August 10, people gathered in Belgrade to protest against Rio Tinto Group's plans to open a lithium mine in Serbia. Protesters demanded a ban on lithium and boron mining in the country. Zlatko Kokanović, head of the association “Не дамо Джадар”, stated that the blockades will continue until the demands are met. According to local sources, protesters blocked two train stations in Belgrade, as well as Prokop and New Belgrade stations. Kokanović stated that protesters have the potential to block three to five more train stations. Interior Minister Ivica Dačić announced criminal and administrative sanctions against illegal actions, while police said 24,000 to 27,000 people took part in the protest. Bloomberg put the number of participants at 40,000. On August 11, Dačić reported that police forces reopened train stations occupied by protesters.
Pezeshkian Presents Cabinet List to Parliament
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian presented a list of 19 ministerial nominees for the new government to the Majlis on his Telegram channel on August 11. Pezeshkian also created a new position of Vice President for Strategic Affairs and appointed former Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif to the post. While Zarif's appointment does not require parliamentary approval, Pezeshkian's ministerial nominees must pass through a “parliamentary filter,” a process that could prove challenging. Pezeshkian's nominees include Abbas Irakchi as Foreign Minister, Aziz Nasirzadeh as Defense Minister and Eskandar Momeni as Interior Minister. Also proposed are former Deputy Minister Mohsen Paknejad as Minister of Petroleum, Alireza Kazemi as Minister of Education, Sayyid Sattar Hashemi as Minister of Information Technology and Communications, and Mohammad Reza Zafarkandi as Minister of Health. Only one female candidate, Farzaneh Sadegh, was nominated as Iran's Minister of Roads and Urbanization in the new cabinet. Experts say that the government proposed by Pezeshkian can be characterized as reformist in general, but after the approval of the Majlis, opposition candidates may be eliminated and the government will move in the strategic direction set by Ali Khamenei.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas Visits Moscow
On August 13, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas will hold a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin during his visit to Moscow on August 12. The meeting will focus on the war in Gaza and developments in the Middle East towards the resolution of the Palestinian issue. Abbas plans to discuss with Putin Russia's role in this process and the current situation in the region. According to Palestinian Ambassador to Russia Abdel Hafiz Nofal, Abbas will also meet with the ambassadors of Arab countries in Moscow. Abbas will then visit Turkey on August 14 to hold talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.
Democratic Party Seeks to Regain Jewish Voter Support in the US
The Democratic Party is trying to regain the support of Jewish voters, which played a key role in the Congressional elections. In 2016, former US President Donald Trump received the votes of 24% of Jewish voters and 30% in 2020. However, according to a poll conducted in June 2024, 67% of Jewish-Americans support Biden, while only 26% would vote for Trump. However, since October 7, when the war in Gaza began, the Democratic Party has had problems with two groups of voters who have always supported the Democrats: ethnic Arabs and Jews. Arabs are unhappy with US military support for Israel, while Jews are angered by the radical rhetoric of some Democratic supporters against Israel. Experts emphasize that Jewish voters are particularly influential in Congressional elections, with John McLaughlin, one of Trump's advisors, saying that Jewish support would boost Republicans' chances in the House of Representatives. On the other hand, the Harris campaign is reshaping its strategy to win these endorsements, and on August 12 appointed Ilan Goldberg, formerly a senior advisor on the Middle East region at the National Security Council. However, experts note that these initiatives could lead to conflicts among Harris' supporters.
Tu-22M3 Plane Crashed in Irkutsk Oblast
The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation announced that a Tupolev Tu-22M strategic bomber crashed in the Irkutsk Oblast region. According to TASS, citing the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation, the crew parachuted out and are in no danger to life. According to the ministry, the plane crashed in an uninhabited area and no destruction was observed on the ground. According to preliminary findings, the crash was reportedly caused by a technical malfunction. Irkutsk Governor Igor Kobzev confirmed that the incident occurred near the village of Mikhailovka, Cheremkhovsky District, and that all four pilots were on board. Stating that the necessary authorities were present at the scene, Kobzev urged the public not to panic. In the last two months, the Russian Defense Ministry reported that two Suhoy Su-34 fighter-bombers crashed during scheduled training flights, one on July 27 in the Volgograd Oblast region and the other on June 11 in the mountains of North Ossetia-Alania. Both crashes were claimed to have been caused by technical malfunction.
Ceasefire Talks in Gaza Strip Resume
Negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza have been restarted. Hamas has demanded the inclusion of Russia, Turkey, and the United Nations in the talks, while Israel has only accepted mediation from the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. Hamas representative Osama Hamdan stated that the discussions should progress with clear timelines for the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. Experts have expressed that Russia's role as a mediator is challenging, but suggested that Moscow’s connections with "Hezbollah" and "Hamas" might offer some advantages. Hamas accuses Israel of extending the negotiations, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accuses Hamas of adding 29 additional points to the ceasefire roadmap. Tel Aviv is demanding a veto on Palestinians returning to northern Gaza and the release of certain detainees. Additionally, Iran’s threat of an attack against Israel and its declaration of Israel as responsible for the attack could put the negotiations at new risk. Although Hamas is said to be willing to reach an agreement with Israel, Netanyahu’s hardline stance remains a significant obstacle to the peace process.
Ramzan Kadyrov to Send Tesla Cybertruck to Special Operations Zone
Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov has announced that he will send the Tesla Cybertruck, which he received from Elon Musk, to a special operations zone. Kadyrov highlighted the vehicle's superior speed and durability, stating that it will be highly beneficial in operational areas. Emphasizing that Tesla's new model possesses the qualities that justify calling it the "Cyber Beast," Kadyrov invited Musk to Chechnya and expressed hope that Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs would not express a negative opinion about this visit. Meanwhile, according to a report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Tesla has initiated a recall for the 2024 model Cybertrucks due to issues with the pedal, and it was reported that the first fatal accident occurred in Texas, USA, in August. However, Elon Musk, who is also the founder of SpaceX, has his company's Starlink satellite communication systems actively used by the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the special operations zone.
Vladimir Putin’s 2024 Foreign Visits
In 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin's foreign visits continue. His visit to Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, on August 18 will mark his seventh foreign trip following his second term that began on May 7, 2024. Putin's first visit was to the People's Republic of China on May 16-17, where he met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing and visited Harbin. On May 23-24, he traveled to Minsk, the capital of Belarus, to discuss strategic partnership issues with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. From May 26-28, he made an official visit to Uzbekistan, where he toured the "New Uzbekistan" park in Tashkent with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. On June 18-19, he visited North Korea and signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement with North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong-Un. During the same period, Putin also visited Vietnam, where he signed cooperation documents with Nguyen Phu Trong, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam, and issued a joint statement to strengthen strategic partnership. On July 3-4, during his visit to Astana, Kazakhstan, he participated in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Heads of State Summit and held various bilateral meetings.
Putin and Aliyev Hold Meeting at Zugulba Presidential Palace
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev met on August 18 at Azerbaijan's "Zugulba" Presidential Palace. During the meeting, the two leaders assessed international and regional issues. Aliyev expressed satisfaction with the cooperation between Russia and Azerbaijan and noted that the strategic partnership agreement between the two countries has been successfully implemented. Putin, in turn, expressed his pleasure with Azerbaijan's development and emphasized that the two countries could collaborate in various areas such as energy, industry, transportation, and logistics. Additionally, Putin expressed his intention to contribute to the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia and conveyed his gratitude for the development of the Russian language and educational institutions in Azerbaijan. Putin also announced that after his visit to Azerbaijan, he would meet with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.
Narendra Modi to Visit Ukraine for the First Time
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced details of his historic visit to Ukraine, scheduled for August 23, following his visit to Poland on August 21-22. This visit, at the invitation of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, will be Modi's first official visit to Ukraine since 1991. Shri Tanmaya Lal, Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs of India responsible for Western Affairs, stated that the visit is significant for evaluating bilateral relations in economic, cultural, and defense areas. Modi and Zelensky had previously met at the G7 Summit in June. It was noted that Modi's visit would focus on discussions with Zelensky regarding the ongoing Ukraine crisis. It was emphasized that India supports diplomatic solutions for resolving the Ukraine crisis and continues to provide humanitarian aid to Ukraine. However, it was mentioned that India has not prepared a peace plan related to this visit and only calls for an end to the conflict.
Vladimir Putin Visits the Caucasus
On August 20, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited three regions in the North Caucasus Federal District: Kabardino-Balkaria, North Ossetia-Alania, and Chechnya. For the first time since 2008, Putin visited School No. 1 in Beslan, where a terrorist attack 20 years ago claimed the lives of 334 people. The school's gymnasium features a memorial wall with photographs of the victims of the attack. Putin and North Ossetia-Alania President Sergey Menyaylo visited the "City of Angels" cemetery in North Ossetia, where they paid tribute to the heroes of the Alpha and Vympel special forces who conducted the raid on the educational institution during the attack. Additionally, he met with the "Beslan Mothers" association of terrorism victims and visited the "Altair" children's talent development center, which opened two years ago. In Chechnya, Putin was welcomed by President Ramzan Kadyrov, met with Mufti Salah Mezhiev at the Prophet Isa Mosque, and reviewed the training at the Russian Special Forces University named after Vladimir Putin. In Kabardino-Balkaria, he also inspected fruit and vegetable.
Great Britain Announces Record Number of Deportations
Under the leadership of Labour Party leader Keir Starmer, the United Kingdom has pledged to increase the deportation of illegal immigrants to the highest level since 2018 within the next six months. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper announced that 100 National Crime Agency research staff will be deployed to enhance border security, with the task of disrupting criminal gangs and preventing dangerous maritime crossings of migrants. Additionally, penalties will be imposed on employers hiring illegal immigrants. The target has been set to deport 14,389 individuals from the UK. However, following Starmer's emphasis on combating human trafficking during his campaign, anti-immigrant sentiments have intensified. Anti-immigrant protests and riots erupted after the deaths of three children in an attack in Southport. More than 1,000 participants in the protests were detained. Despite promises from every UK government over the past decade to reduce the number of immigrants, there has not been a significant decrease in immigration since Brexit. Currently, the Labour Party government is working to tighten border controls, but it is considered too early to make a clear assessment of the effectiveness of these measures. Experts note that the Labour Party's policies on immigration are uncertain and that internal party dynamics have hindered the implementation of stricter measures.
Narendra Modi Visited Kyiv
On August 23, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a historic official visit to Ukraine, marking the first time in the history of the two countries. Modi arrived in Kyiv by train from Poland on Ukraine’s National Flag Day. During his visit, he reiterated India’s neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine war and emphasized that his country approaches Ukraine as a “friend” and “partner.” Modi highlighted the devastating impact of the conflict, particularly on children, and underscored India’s humanitarian focus. In Kyiv, he visited the Mahatma Gandhi monument, expressing his commitment to peace and harmony. Modi also met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, discussing his previous negotiations with Vladimir Putin during his visit to Moscow. However, Modi clarified that India would not assume an official mediation role or propose peace plans. Agreements were signed only in the fields of humanitarian aid, agriculture, health, and culture during the visit, and Modi invited Zelensky to visit India. Modi reaffirmed that while India is ready to contribute to peace efforts, it would not take on a mediatory role. Experts note that India’s stance is less about its strong economic ties with Moscow and more about a strategic balancing approach.
The Banning of Communist Activities Worldwide
The banning of communist parties globally is a process shaped by ideological conflicts and political pressures. In the U.S., a law enacted on August 24, 1954, aimed to fully control communist activities, barring the Communist Party from participating in elections and depriving it of constitutional rights. This law emerged as part of the fear of communism, known as the "Red Scare." Similarly, in Italy, Benito Mussolini’s fascist regime banned the communist party in 1926, and in Germany, the Nazi regime persecuted communists in 1933, with the party being banned again in West Germany in 1956. In Latin American countries like Argentina, Chile, and Paraguay, communist parties faced military coups and oppressive regimes but regained legal status with democratization processes. Today, communist party activities remain banned in Iran, Thailand, Indonesia, Ukraine, and the Baltic states. (The Red Scare refers to the anti-communist propaganda initiated in the U.S. between 1919 and 1920 against political activists and socialists)
2024 Russia Elections
In the 2024 Russia elections (ЕДГ), scheduled to take place from September 6 to 8, approximately 4,000 elections will be held across 83 regions, with over 35,000 positions for deputies and mayors to be filled. A total of 57 million voters will be eligible to cast their ballots. Elections for governors will be held in 21 regions, while regional council members will be elected in 4 regions based on the president’s recommendation. Additionally, elections will be conducted for the State Duma of the Russian Federation and local councils. There will also be 9,034 independent candidates competing in the elections. In most regions, the voting period is set at 3 days.
What is Known About Pavel Durov’s Legal Investigation in France
Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, was detained on August 24 at Paris–Le Bourget Airport after arriving from Baku. It is reported that Durov had a dinner in Paris. Durov was stopped by air police before disembarking from his private jet and was detained overnight. French authorities are investigating Durov in connection with a child crime investigation. The crimes Durov is alleged to have committed include fraud, drug trafficking, and online bullying. It is noted that in France, Durov is accused of failing to cooperate with authorities regarding the misuse of the Telegram platform, which could be considered as indirect complicity in the commission of crimes. French authorities are planning to make a press statement on August 26, and it is expected that Durov will be brought to court within 24 hours of his detention. Additionally, the Russian consulate in Paris has contacted French authorities for consular access for Durov, but no response has yet been received.
Ukraine Will Not Continue Gas Transit Agreement with Russia After 2024
Ukraine has announced that it will not continue the gas transit agreement with Russia, which is valid until the end of 2024. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that a definitive decision has been made and that the agreement with Russia will not be extended. However, he mentioned that they may consider gas transit proposals from other European operators. The agreement signed in 2019 provided for Ukraine to transport a specified annual quantity of Russian gas and for Russia to pay approximately $1.25 billion for this service. Gazprom, Russia’s largest company and the world’s largest natural gas producer, transports half of its gas exports to Europe through Ukraine. In 2023, 14.6 billion cubic meters of gas were transported via this route. Gazprom’s annual revenue from gas transit through Ukraine ranges between $5.3 and $6 billion, but this amount decreases to $3.7 to $4.2 billion after export taxes.
Google's First Hearing in Lawsuit Against Russian Media to Take Place
The first hearing of Google's lawsuit against Russian media will take place on August 28 in San Jose, California. Google is seeking to limit international jurisdiction over Russia's RT “Russia Today,” Spas “СПАС,” and Tsargrad TV “Царьград ТВ” YouTube channels and demands that such disputes be resolved only in the U.S. and the U.K. The company aims to prevent international companies from filing lawsuits against Google outside the U.S. and to block the enforcement of foreign court decisions. Russian media outlets have filed lawsuits against Google in various countries, including Turkey, South Africa, and Mexico, with cases being adjudicated by courts in different countries. At Google's request, American and British courts will review the enforceability of Russian court decisions in the U.S. Experts indicate that Google's move could have significant implications for international jurisdiction and national laws.
Putin to Visit Mongolia on September 3 as Part of Official Visit
Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit Mongolia on September 3 as part of an official visit. According to a statement from the Kremlin, Putin, who was invited by Mongolian President Uhnaagiyn Khürelsükh, will hold meetings with Dashzegviin Amarbayasgalan, Chairman of the Mongolian Parliament (Great Khural), and Mongolian Prime Minister Luvsannamsrain Oyun-Erdene during his visit. Key agenda items for the visit include the future development of the Russia-Mongolia strategic partnership, current international and regional issues, and agreements to be signed between the two countries. Additionally, Putin is expected to participate in events marking the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Khalkhin Gol, which occurred between May 11 and September 16, 1939, during the border conflict between the Soviet Union-Mongolia People's Republic and the Japanese Empire-Manchu Empire. Khürelsükh had invited Putin to a meeting in China in October 2023, and the leaders met again on July 3 at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit. Putin has indicated that the visit will focus on expanding energy cooperation, particularly in the areas of hydrocarbons and electricity.
Macron and Vučić Meet in Belgrade
French President Emmanuel Macron's two-day visit to Belgrade, Serbia, on August 30 resulted in significant agreements. Macron and Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić signed 12 bilateral agreements covering economic, social, and humanitarian fields. The most notable of these agreements is a contract for Serbia to acquire 12 Rafale fighter jets, the first French fighter aircraft in Serbia's history. The value of this agreement could reach up to 3 billion euros. Serbia plans to use the Rafales to replace its current Mikoyan MiG-29 aircraft. During Macron's visit, agreements were also signed regarding nuclear energy and strategic raw materials, particularly lithium. France's leadership in nuclear energy and Serbia's lithium resources are expected to play a significant role in future cooperation. The political aspect of Macron's visit is also noteworthy, with the French President emphasizing Serbia's need for European Union membership and cooperation with the West. Additionally, Vučić, who rejected Serbia's desire to impose sanctions on Russia, stated that his country makes independent decisions and does not feel obligated to explain itself on this matter.
Update on the Situation in Kursk Oblast on the 26th Day
The conflict in Kursk Oblast continues on its 26th day. In the areas near the Serbian border, clashes between Russian and Ukrainian troops have persisted. Over the past 24 hours, Russian forces repelled six Ukrainian attacks and destroyed two Ukrainian armored vehicles along with other equipment. Ukrainian losses have been limited to 30 dead and wounded, while Russian soldiers targeted enemy forces in 15 settlements. As the impact of the clashes in the region continues, Russian President Vladimir Putin is closely monitoring the social issues and military situation. Additionally, it has been reported that a new defense unit will be established in Kursk Oblast as part of counter-terrorism efforts, with the possibility of including parents of high school students in this unit. Furthermore, 182 people have been evacuated to safe areas, and humanitarian aid and necessary supplies are being delivered to those in need in the region. Recent aid efforts aim to improve living conditions in the area.