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Europe Turns to Armenia as Russia Watches Warily

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More than 30 European leaders have gathered in Yerevan for back-to-back summits, marking a significant geopolitical shift for Armenia—a country historically aligned with Russia. The meetings, including the European Political Community summit and a landmark EU-Armenia bilateral, signal growing ties between Armenia and Europe despite its longstanding dependence on Moscow for energy and security.

The shift gained momentum after the 2023 conflict with Azerbaijan, when Russia failed to intervene as Azerbaijani forces took control of Nagorno-Karabakh, displacing over 100,000 ethnic Armenians. Disillusioned with Russian-led security arrangements, Armenia has since moved closer to Europe, even initiating steps toward EU membership in 2025. A US-backed peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan has further accelerated regional diplomacy, though tensions remain fragile.

Russia has reacted with visible unease, warning that Armenia cannot simultaneously align with both the EU and its Eurasian Economic Union. Recent actions—including trade restrictions and suspected cyber interference—highlight growing friction. While Europe is offering support through monitoring missions and cooperation, it has stopped short of firm commitments on defence or energy, leaving Armenia to carefully balance its shifting alliances.

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Russia to Hold Victory Day Parade Without Military Equipment

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Russia will mark its annual Victory Day celebration on May 9 in Moscow’s Red Square, but this year’s military parade will not feature any heavy equipment. The Defence Ministry said the decision is due to the ongoing operational situation linked to the war in Ukraine. Instead, the parade will focus on marching servicemen from various military branches and educational institutions.

Victory Day, which commemorates the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II, remains one of Russia’s most significant national holidays. Traditionally known for showcasing tanks, missile systems, and other military hardware, the event will still include an air force flypast displaying the national flag colors, along with personnel representing different arms of the military.

The announcement comes as fighting in Ukraine continues, with Russia claiming gradual advances while peace talks remain stalled. President Vladimir Putin has reiterated his aim of securing full control over the Donbas region, while Ukraine continues to resist and hold its positions.

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Ukraine’s Animal Rescuers Risk Lives to Save Pets Traumatized by War

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Animal rescue groups in Ukraine are working under constant danger to save pets and stray animals affected by the ongoing war. In the frontline city of Zaporizhzhia, a Russian drone strike destroyed part of a shelter, killing more than a dozen animals and leaving others injured or scattered. Despite the risks, volunteers and local residents quickly came together to rebuild and continue caring for displaced animals.

Thousands of pets have been abandoned as civilians flee bombardment zones, while others are left behind after their owners are killed. Rescue organisations like “12 Guardians” have evacuated tens of thousands of animals from dangerous areas, often under shelling. These efforts not only save animals but also help people who refuse to leave without their pets or struggle with the emotional toll of abandonment.

Rescuers say animals suffer trauma similar to humans, making their work even more urgent despite the dangers. With frontline areas becoming increasingly unsafe, volunteers now use protective measures like drone detectors while continuing operations. Many believe saving animals also brings hope to people affected by war, reinforcing the idea that humanitarian efforts extend beyond just human lives.

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Ukraine and Russia Exchange 193 Prisoners Each in US- and UAE-Brokered Swap

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Ukraine and Russia exchanged 193 prisoners of war each on Friday in a swap facilitated with assistance from the United States and the United Arab Emirates. The exchange is part of ongoing efforts to repatriate captured personnel amid the prolonged conflict, now in its fourth year.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy confirmed the return of the captives, calling the exchanges “important” for bringing people home. Both Ukrainian and Russian officials acknowledged the role of the US and UAE in helping coordinate the operation.

The released individuals included soldiers, border guards, and police officers. Many of the Ukrainian returnees were reported to have injuries or had faced legal charges while in Russian custody. Emotional reunions were reported as freed captives arrived back in Ukraine, with some describing years of captivity before returning home.

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Russian Billionaires’ Wealth Jumps Despite Sanctions

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Russian billionaires increased their combined wealth by 11% over the past year to a record $696.5 billion, according to Forbes. The rise comes despite ongoing war-related pressures and sweeping Western sanctions, highlighting the resilience of Russia’s resource-driven economy.

Much of the wealth growth is tied to Russia’s vast natural resources, with higher global commodity prices boosting fortunes. Alexei Mordashov topped the list as the richest individual with an estimated $37 billion, followed by Vladimir Potanin and Vagit Alekperov. Leonid Mikhelson and his family ranked fourth, reflecting continued dominance by energy and metals tycoons.

While Russia’s wealthiest have seen gains, their fortunes remain smaller compared to global tech leaders. Elon Musk continues to lead the global rich list, far ahead of others such as Larry Page, underscoring the gap between resource-based wealth and technology-driven fortunes.

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Pavel Durov Says He Received ‘Suspect’ Summons in Russia

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Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of Telegram, said he has received a legal summons in Russia that labels him a “suspect” in a criminal case. The notice was reportedly sent to an apartment where he lived two decades ago, raising questions about the intent and timing of the move.

Russian authorities have intensified pressure on Telegram in recent months, including claims—reported in state media—that Durov is being investigated over alleged links to terrorism-related activity. Officials have also accused the platform of enabling criminal misuse and posing “hybrid threats,” citing materials attributed to the country’s security services.

Durov dismissed the accusations, suggesting the case may be tied to his defense of constitutional rights such as freedom of speech and privacy of communication. Telegram, which has over a billion users globally and remains widely used in both Russia and Ukraine, has repeatedly denied allegations of wrongdoing while resisting efforts by Moscow to promote a state-backed alternative.

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Russian Publisher Staff Questioned Over ‘LGBT Propaganda’ Probe

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One of Russia’s largest publishers, Eksmo, said several employees have been questioned by authorities over alleged “LGBT propaganda” in its book catalogue. The development follows reports of raids by investigators in Moscow, though the company denied any searches or seizures, stating that four staff members, including its director, were taken in for questioning.

The case is linked to Russia’s broader crackdown on LGBT-related content under President Vladimir Putin, whose government has labeled the “LGBT movement” as extremist. Authorities have increasingly targeted companies across media and publishing sectors, imposing fines and scrutiny on content deemed to violate strict laws promoting traditional values.

Eksmo said the investigation relates to books published by Popcorn Books, a former subsidiary known for young adult titles featuring LGBT themes. The company indicated that the probe stems from a 2025 criminal case involving certain titles and missing inventory. While the legal status of those questioned remains unclear, the incident highlights intensifying pressure on Russia’s publishing industry amid tightening censorship rules.

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Blogger vs State TV Sparks Row in Russia

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A public dispute has erupted in Russia after celebrity blogger Victoria Bonya responded sharply to criticism from state TV host Vladimir Solovyov. The clash followed Bonya’s viral video appeal to President Vladimir Putin, in which she said he was being shielded from the country’s real problems, including corruption and pressure on ordinary citizens. The video drew tens of millions of views and prompted rare acknowledgment from the Kremlin.

Solovyov accused Bonya on air of working with Western interests and called for authorities to investigate her, using harsh and personal language. In response, Bonya condemned his remarks as misogynistic and demanded he be removed from television. She argued that insults directed at her also demean single mothers and women more broadly, gaining support from parts of the public.

Escalating the feud, Bonya said she may pursue legal action and circulated a viral AI-generated video mocking Solovyov. Meanwhile, some Russians interviewed expressed sympathy for her, saying public figures should not use their platforms to insult others and that citizens have the right to voice concerns about their country.

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Radev Sweeps Bulgaria Election in Landslide Victory

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Rumen Radev has secured a sweeping victory in Bulgaria’s parliamentary election, paving the way to lead the country’s first single-party government in nearly 30 years. The former president capitalised on widespread public frustration with corruption, political instability, and rising living costs, following years of repeated elections and fragile coalitions.

Radev, a former fighter pilot often viewed as sympathetic to Russia, positioned himself as an anti-establishment figure promising reform. His win also dealt a major blow to traditional parties, including those led by Boyko Borissov. Despite his rhetoric and past criticism of EU policies, analysts believe he is unlikely to risk jeopardising crucial European Union funding or dramatically shift Bulgaria’s geopolitical alignment.

The new government faces significant domestic challenges, including tackling corruption, stabilising the economy, and restoring public trust in institutions. While some voters remain concerned about his perceived pro-Russian stance, many see his decisive mandate as an opportunity to bring stability after years of political turmoil.

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Radev Leads Bulgaria Polls Amid Anti-Corruption Push

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Former Bulgarian president Rumen Radev is leading opinion polls ahead of the April 19 parliamentary election, campaigning on an anti-corruption platform and promising stability after years of political turmoil. Backed strongly by rural and older voters, Radev has positioned himself as a reformer determined to dismantle what he calls an entrenched oligarchic system.

The vote comes after repeated elections and fragile coalitions that failed to address graft and economic concerns. While Radev’s Progressive Bulgaria party holds a clear lead, it is unlikely to secure a majority, making coalition-building essential. Potential partners include pro-European groups, which could moderate his policies, especially on foreign relations.

Radev’s perceived pro-Russian stance has raised concerns within the European Union, particularly regarding Bulgaria’s position on Ukraine and broader EU alignment. Despite this, many voters prioritize domestic issues like corruption, economic inequality, and governance, viewing Radev as a chance for decisive leadership in a politically unstable landscape.

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