Vladimir Putin

Russia has threatened to launch "systematic strikes" on Kyiv, targeting "decision-making centres and command posts" and drone manufacturing facilities, and has urged foreign nationals and diplomats to leave the city. This warning follows a recent escalation of attacks, including a large-scale aerial assault over the weekend that killed four people and injured approximately 100 others in and around Kyiv. Ukraine has condemned the threat as "shameless blackmail" and accused Moscow of attempting to intimidate the international diplomatic community.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Beijing to declare a "new stage" in bilateral relations, agreeing to extend their treaty of good-neighborliness and friendly cooperation. The leaders pledged to work together for a more just and equitable world order amid a turbulent international landscape.