Vladimir Putin has accused British special forces of orchestrating attacks on Russia’s Black Sea fleet, as reported by Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB). The allegations suggest that the UK has been involved in training Ukrainian forces and supplying them with weapons aimed at Russian naval targets. Despite these claims, the UK’s Ministry of Defence has not issued a response. The region remains tense, with Ukraine stepping up military actions against Russian forces stationed in Crimea and Moscow bolstering its naval and air defence capabilities in response.

In a separate development, Russian businessmen Mikhail Fridman and Petr Aven successfully contested EU sanctions imposed on them, with the EU General Court ruling in their favour due to insufficient evidence linking them directly to actions against Ukraine. The EU has the option to appeal this verdict.

Furthermore, disgraced US Air Force veteran Wilmer Puello-Mota, facing charges for possessing child sexual abuse images, has reportedly joined the Russian military. His move is seen as an attempt to avoid legal repercussions in the US. Puello-Mota’s case has prompted discussions on the use of such situations for propaganda purposes by Russia.

On the security front, the FBI is set to warn the US Congress of potential threats following a deadly attack in a Moscow concert hall, attributed to a branch of the Islamic State group. FBI Director Christopher Wray will request additional resources to enhance national security and uphold public safety across the US.

In Ukraine, escalating conflicts have led to significant destruction, including the targeting of Kyiv’s power infrastructure by Russian forces. This aggression has prompted Ukraine to mobilise additional military resources and appeal for international support, notably from the US and Japan. Concerns continue over the potential catastrophic outcomes from ongoing hostilities near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

Amidst these developments, thousands of Russian soldiers are deserting their posts and seeking asylum due to a lack of willingness to participate in the conflict, calling into question their future status and the humanitarian obligations of Western nations.