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Russia

PBS NewsHour

Putin Issues Decree Allowing State Control of Infrastructure Affected by Drone Attacks

Russian President Vladimir Putin has enacted a decree allowing the state to temporarily take control of critical infrastructure if private owners fail to protect it from Ukrainian drone attacks. This decision comes amid rising economic pressures in Russia due to ongoing attacks on oil refineries and other facilities. The decree applies to multiple sectors and aims to enhance security measures while not implying nationalization of companies.

Washington Post — Politics

CIA Director Visits Moscow Amid Increased Ukrainian Attacks

CIA Director William Burns visited Moscow on August 25, 2026, in an unannounced trip. The visit coincided with an increase in Ukrainian military operations deep inside Russia, including attacks in the capital.

Deutsche Welle

Ukrainian Drone Strikes Disrupt Grain and Oil Exports from Russian Black Sea Ports

Ukrainian drone strikes are disrupting grain and oil exports from Russian Black Sea ports, particularly Novorossiysk, which is Russia's largest port. The attacks have led to significant operational halts at major grain terminals, with experts warning of severe consequences for Russian exporters and the national budget. The ongoing conflict is also affecting global wheat supplies, as both Ukrainian and Russian exports have sharply declined.

Al Jazeera English

Kremlin Denies Planned Talks with US Envoys Amid Reports of CIA Director's Visit to Moscow

The Kremlin has denied any planned talks with US envoys this week, despite reports of CIA Director John Ratcliffe's visit to Moscow. The visit is seen as significant, marking the highest-level trip by a Trump administration official to Russia since January. The situation follows stalled negotiations regarding the conflict in Ukraine and includes a request from Washington to Ukraine to suspend strikes during the delegation's visit.

Fox News — Latest

U.S. Military Plane Lands in Moscow; Kremlin Claims No Information

A U.S. military transport plane landed at Moscow's Vnukovo airport on Tuesday, with the Kremlin stating it had no information about the flight. The aircraft had previously traveled from Joint Base Andrews to Riga, Latvia, before heading to Moscow. This marks the first direct flight of a U.S.-registered jet to Russia from Europe since January.

Washington Post — World

CIA Director Visits Moscow for Unannounced Meeting

CIA Director William Burns visited Moscow on August 25, 2026, in an unannounced trip. The visit coincides with heightened Ukrainian military operations inside Russia, particularly in Moscow.

Washington Post — Politics

CIA Director Visits Moscow in Unannounced Trip

CIA Director William Burns visited Moscow on an unannounced trip. This visit coincides with heightened attacks by Ukrainian forces within Russia, particularly in the capital.

Washington Examiner

CIA Director John Ratcliffe Visits Moscow for High-Level Discussions

CIA Director John Ratcliffe visited Moscow aboard a C-17 Globemaster for discussions with Russian officials. The visit, which has not been officially confirmed by U.S. or Russian officials, is speculated to relate to the ongoing war in Ukraine and other sensitive topics. This marks Ratcliffe's first known trip to Russia.

Fox News — Latest

Ukraine Celebrates Independence Day Amid Ongoing Russian Attacks

On August 24, 2026, Ukraine celebrated its Independence Day while facing ongoing Russian military attacks. European leaders joined President Zelenskyy in Kyiv to show support, as security concerns rose due to recent strikes on civilian areas. Experts noted that Ukraine's military advances may be causing increased pressure on Russia, which is experiencing significant losses.

Washington Examiner

UK Provides Missile Blueprints to Ukraine Amid Deteriorating Relations with Russia

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has provided Ukraine with blueprints for Storm Shadow missiles during a visit to Kyiv, signaling continued UK support amid escalating tensions with Russia. The blueprints will allow Ukraine to enhance its long-range strike capabilities. The Kremlin has condemned the UK's actions, warning of potential consequences.

New York Times — World

Ukrainian Officials Report Drone Attack Resulting in Three Deaths

Ukrainian officials have stated that a drone attack attributed to Russia led to the deaths of three Ukrainians. The drone was reportedly equipped with technology from Nvidia, highlighting the role of artificial intelligence in modern warfare.

Deutsche Welle

Russia Faces Fuel Shortages Amid Attacks on Oil Refineries

Russia is facing significant fuel shortages attributed to attacks on its oil refineries, leading to empty pumps and long wait times for consumers. Economists within Russia indicate that public dissatisfaction with these shortages could potentially impact the situation in Ukraine.