Overnight on October 13th, Ukrainian drones struck the largest Russian oil depot in Feodosia, Crimea, causing a massive fire. According to a source, the SBU targeted at least five tanks and an electricity substation in Feodosia, and another in Simferopol. Social media showed videos of the blaze, which occurred around midnight, marking the second attack on the facility in a week. Located 250 kilometers from Ukrainian-controlled territory, the depot is the largest in Crimea, holding up to 250,000 tons of fuel, supplying Russian forces, and is being targeted in an effort to reduce Russia’s capacity to wage war.
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Concerns are rising in Taipei that Canada may back away from a previously agreed-upon economic cooperation framework, potentially jeopardizing the trade deal. This hesitation from the Canadian government, under Mark Carney, has prompted calls for immediate action from Taiwanese officials. The current global landscape, complicated by U.S. tariffs and increasing pressure from China, presents considerable obstacles to Taiwan’s efforts to expand its international trade relationships. While progress has been slow, Taiwan has seen a positive reception from the Philippines, demonstrating a willingness to engage despite broader diplomatic challenges.
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Amid escalating tensions between Russia and NATO, a Russian submarine surfaced off the coast of France, prompting surveillance by a French frigate. While an unverified Telegram channel reported the submarine suffered technical issues, Russia denied any malfunction, stating the vessel was undergoing a routine inter-fleet transfer and complying with international maritime rules. NATO’s Maritime Command confirmed the monitoring on social media, emphasizing the alliance’s readiness to defend against threats. This incident coincides with NATO’s annual nuclear exercise, “Steadfast Noon,” aimed at testing procedures for safeguarding and deploying nuclear weapons, further highlighting the heightened security concerns in Europe.
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Ukrainian forces are actively conducting counteroffensive operations in the Dobropillia area and the Zaporizhzhia sector, with troops advancing over three kilometers near Orikhiv. President Zelensky acknowledged these advances in his nightly address, specifically highlighting the efforts of various units. He expressed gratitude for their successes while emphasizing the importance of diplomatic efforts alongside military advancements, urging all involved to deliver results.
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Moderate Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Bahrain, are reportedly uneasy with concessions made to Qatar and Washington’s expanding defense agreements with Doha. These states support Gaza’s reconstruction, aligning with Israel’s position on Hamas disarmament and Palestinian Authority reforms, while simultaneously demanding a two-state solution. Despite normalization with Israel remaining an option, it is contingent on the full implementation of agreements, particularly those related to the Palestinian Authority and a genuine two-state solution, according to Saudi sources. Concerns also exist about the potential for Hamas to undermine the peace process, coupled with fears of renewed conflict during the interim period before the establishment of a multinational force and international oversight of Gaza.
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As part of a ceasefire, Hamas released the remaining 20 living hostages held in Gaza, who were returned to Israel, while the bodies of 28 deceased hostages are also expected to be handed over. In exchange, Israel is releasing 250 long-term Palestinian prisoners from Ofer Prison. The exchange, raising hopes for ending the conflict, will be accompanied by a surge of humanitarian aid into Gaza, which has suffered severe destruction and displacement. The U.S. President arrived in the region to discuss a U.S.-proposed deal and postwar plans with leaders from across the region.
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In the initial phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal, Hamas has handed over the first seven Israeli hostages to the Red Cross. These hostages, held for over two years, were then transferred to Israeli security forces and are being reunited with their families after spending time in captivity. This release is part of an agreement involving the exchange of hostages for over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. US President Donald Trump declared the war over upon arriving in Israel, where he was greeted by Israeli officials and is expected to address the parliament. The agreement is expected to be followed by the release of 250 Palestinian prisoners and a further withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.
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Violent clashes have erupted in Gaza City between Hamas forces and the Dughmush clan, resulting in at least 27 fatalities. The fighting began after Hamas forces attempted to detain armed clan members, leading to heavy exchanges of gunfire near the Jordanian Hospital. Both sides have accused the other of initiating the conflict, with Hamas claiming its fighters were attacked and the Dughmush family alleging an attempt to evict them from a building. This confrontation is part of Hamas’s efforts to reassert control over areas recently vacated by Israeli troops, as it has recalled thousands of security forces for this purpose.
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AP News reported that President Donald Trump suggested he may send Ukraine long-range Tomahawk missiles if Russia does not settle its war. Trump stated this to reporters aboard Air Force One, mentioning he might tell Russia that if the war isn’t settled, the U.S. may provide the offensive weapons. These comments followed a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who said the pair discussed strengthening Ukraine’s long-range capabilities. The Kremlin expressed “extreme concern” regarding the potential for the U.S. providing Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine.
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Despite the European Union’s efforts to reduce reliance, seven member states increased their Russian energy imports in 2025. These imports, totaling over 11 billion euros in the first eight months, include substantial increases from France and the Netherlands. This contradicts the EU’s broader goal and has drawn criticism, particularly from the United States, who deem the continued purchases as funding the ongoing war. Much of the trade involves liquefied natural gas, and long-term contracts with major energy firms perpetuate the reliance, which is viewed as a “form of self-sabotage” by experts.
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John Q. Hosedrinker