Steve Rosenberg reports on the upcoming elections in Russia, expected to reinforce the dominance of the ruling party, United Russia, and President Vladimir Putin. Critics argue the elections lack fairness, with significant repression of opposition voices. Amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine, many Russians express low expectations for change, focusing instead on pressing economic concerns.
The Washington Capitals addressed criticism of Alex Ovechkin's participation in a campaign video for Russian President Vladimir Putin's United Russia party, stating he was 'asked by his country to participate.' Ovechkin, a long-time supporter of Putin, has faced backlash amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. He has a history of endorsing Putin but has also called for peace, stating he is not involved in politics.
Congress has approved a bipartisan sanctions bill targeting various Russian entities, including officials and financial institutions. The bill will now be forwarded to President Trump for his consideration.
The U.S. has accused Russian intelligence operatives of orchestrating a murder-for-hire plot against a Kremlin critic in Washington, D.C. Five men have been charged in connection with the conspiracy, which prosecutors claim is part of a broader network involved in assassinations and terrorist attacks. The indictment details the alleged recruitment and surveillance efforts directed by Russian operatives, with the case marking a significant allegation of Russian intelligence operations within the U.S.
The Department of Justice has charged five Russian agents for allegedly engaging in murder-for-hire plots and surveillance operations against dissidents and allies of Ukraine. The defendants include individuals from Russia, Cuba, and Venezuela, and they are accused of attempting to recruit U.S. citizens for these activities.
An Italian NATO fighter jet shot down a suspected Russian drone in Lithuanian airspace on September 15, 2026. The drone, which was reported to be carrying explosives, entered Lithuania from Belarus. Lithuanian officials and European leaders have expressed concerns about escalating tensions and the threat posed by Russia to European security.
NHL star Alexander Ovechkin has featured in a video advertisement for United Russia, the ruling party in Russia. His involvement occurs just before the country's parliamentary elections set for this weekend.
NHL star Alexander Ovechkin has featured in a video promoting United Russia, the ruling party in Russia, as parliamentary elections approach this weekend. His involvement comes as the party seeks support from prominent figures.
Alex Ovechkin, captain of the Washington Capitals, appeared in a campaign advertisement for Russian President Vladimir Putin's United Russia party ahead of parliamentary elections. The video features Ovechkin alongside pro-Kremlin figures, including Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who has been sanctioned by the U.S. for his role in the invasion of Ukraine.
The US Space Force has confirmed the deployment of weapons in space, citing threats from Russia and China. In response, China has urged the US to halt its military preparations in outer space. The issue of militarization in space has been a concern since the signing of the Outer Space Treaty in 1967.
Umar Kremlev, a Russian businessman, is reported to have helped finance Donald Trump Jr's wedding in the Bahamas. He has spent the last decade in politically connected circles in Russia and has a background in boxing.
The US has confirmed the deployment of a space weapon in Earth's orbit, marking its first acknowledgment of such capabilities. US Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink stated that this move is necessary for safeguarding US forces against threats. The confirmation comes amid concerns about Russian and Chinese advancements in space military capabilities.
Donald Trump Jr. and his wife confirmed that Russian businessman Umar Kremlev funded parts of their wedding celebrations, including renting a private island and a fireworks display. The couple expressed gratitude for Kremlev's generosity and defended the personal nature of their celebration against political interpretations.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine is willing to pause strikes on Russian territory if a commitment is secured from Russia to avoid targeting Ukraine's critical infrastructure. This statement follows U.S. President Donald Trump's claim of an agreement between Russia and Ukraine regarding energy infrastructure. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte indicated that recent Russian drone strikes near the Ukraine-Poland border would lead to increased support for Ukraine from NATO.
Amid fears of military mobilization and increasing restrictions on freedoms, some Russians are leaving the country. Reports indicate a rise in inquiries about emigration, although the current exodus is not as large as in 2022. Individuals cite concerns over the political situation, economic decline, and personal safety as reasons for their departure.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte announced increased support for Ukraine following Russian drone strikes near the Poland-Ukraine border. Rutte emphasized that NATO will not be deterred in its support for Ukraine, while Polish officials warned of potential escalations from Russia. U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that Ukraine and Russia have agreed to refrain from attacking each other's energy infrastructure, although this has not been confirmed by either side.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Canada to seek increased military support amid ongoing conflict with Russia. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced plans to produce millions of drones, with one-third allocated to Ukraine, and a package of air-defense interceptors valued at 350 million Canadian dollars. Zelenskyy emphasized the need for Ukraine to strengthen its defenses while expressing hope for future diplomatic negotiations.
Russian attacks in Ukraine have resulted in at least seven deaths, with significant casualties reported in Mykolaiv and Sumy. In response, Ukraine has launched a drone attack targeting gas plants in Russia's Arctic region, marking one of its deepest strikes to date.
On September 10, 2026, a drone attack by Ukraine targeted a port in Dagestan, Russia, resulting in fires and explosions. Further information on the damage and casualties is currently unavailable.
President Vladimir Putin has publicly dismissed rumors of military mobilization in Russia, calling them unfounded. However, many Russians report receiving summonses from military enlistment offices, leading to concerns about potential mobilization. Reports indicate that recruitment efforts and job vacancies related to mobilization preparedness are increasing, contributing to public anxiety despite official denials from the Kremlin.
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