Speaking with the BBC, Ahmed, a shopkeeper who has since fled Mali, recounted his brutal experience with Wagner forces in Nampala in August 2024. Accused of harboring connections with jihadists, Ahmed was detained, tortured through waterboarding and beatings, and repeatedly interrogated about his boss’s whereabouts. After enduring the torture, Ahmed was placed in a toilet block with other locals and subsequently taken back for another round of interrogation where he was threatened with beheading. Ultimately, he was left in a kitchen with two other men who had also been detained.
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American volunteers and veterans assisting Ukraine are expressing dismay and embarrassment over Donald Trump’s continued influence and actions regarding the war effort. A leaked 28-point peace plan, reportedly drafted by a Trump envoy, has been widely criticized as echoing Vladimir Putin’s demands and betraying Ukraine. This plan reportedly includes significant concessions that would cede territory and compromise Ukraine’s sovereignty, causing anger among those dedicated to supporting the country. Some believe that the US government is motivated by financial gain.
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President Trump defended Special Envoy Steve Witkoff’s actions, calling them standard practice for dealmakers. Trump stated that Witkoff was simply doing his job by selling the deal to both Ukraine and Russia, highlighting the necessity of pressure and persuasion in negotiations. While admitting he hadn’t heard the specific recording, Trump viewed the approach as a normal form of negotiation, implying that both sides needed to compromise. These comments came in response to Bloomberg’s publication of a transcript where Witkoff advised Putin’s aides on presenting a “peace agreement” to Trump.
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Recent reports indicate that payments to Russian troops fighting in Ukraine have been suspended in Yakutia due to regional budget shortfalls, with the finance minister citing an inability to forecast demand. This follows a period of record military spending by Russia, which has offered substantial financial incentives to attract recruits. The suspension of payments could signal financial strain and liquidity problems within Russia’s war effort, as several other regions have already cut bonuses to recruits. Despite assurances from Yakutia officials that payments will be made, the ongoing economic impact of the war may lead to further financial difficulties.
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Following the success of the Gaza peace deal, US presidential envoy Steve Witkoff proposed a collaborative effort with Russia to establish a similar plan for Ukraine. Witkoff, during a brief phone call with Yuri Ushakov, Putin’s foreign policy aide, offered advice on how Putin should present the proposal to Donald Trump. Witkoff suggested Putin initiate a call with Trump before a planned White House visit by Volodymyr Zelenskiy, utilizing the Gaza agreement as a model.
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French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that the US’s proposed peace plan for Ukraine needs significant revisions before it is acceptable to Ukraine and Europe. Macron emphasized that the plan, while a step toward peace, contains elements that could be perceived as capitulation. He clarified that any decisions regarding territorial compromises rest solely with Ukraine and that the plan should not dictate terms favorable to Russia. Furthermore, Macron highlighted the importance of Ukraine rebuilding its military and emphasized Europe’s authority over frozen Russian assets.
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Nathan Gill, the former leader of Reform UK in Wales, has been sentenced to 10-and-a-half years in prison. Gill admitted to accepting bribes in exchange for pro-Russia interviews and speeches, potentially receiving up to £40,000. These payments were connected to his work as a Member of the European Parliament, with the money coming from an individual alleged to have ties to Russian secret services. Judge Mrs Justice Cheema-Grubb stated that Gill’s actions abused his position and damaged public trust in democracy.
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Russia’s oil and gas revenue is anticipated to decrease by approximately 35% in November compared to the previous year, reaching roughly $6.6 billion, due to weaker crude prices and a stronger ruble. This decline, also reflected in a 7.4% decrease from October, places pressure on Russia’s budget, especially with elevated defense spending. For the first 11 months of 2025, oil and gas revenue is projected to total approximately $102 billion. Western sanctions, designed to limit Moscow’s war funding, have compounded the issue.
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White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated the United States cannot indefinitely supply weapons to Ukraine. Leavitt explained that former President Trump has dedicated considerable effort to ending the war and seeks to stop the killings. Although no longer providing funding directly, the US continues to provide significant amounts of weapons through NATO. Leavitt emphasized that the president wants the war to end, reflecting the sentiment of a frustrated American society.
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The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) is facing criticism from the UK and other countries regarding the reinstatement of Russia and Belarus, despite the ongoing war in Ukraine. IPC President Andrew Parsons stated the decision to lift the partial suspensions was not linked to participation in wars but instead based on the perceived reduction of promotion of the war through Paralympic sport. The IPC’s decision was influenced by a perceived inconsistency in applying sanctions, given other global conflicts. While the UK and a number of European countries expressed concern over the decision, the IPC has stated it will respond with the information they want regarding the consequences.
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John Q. Hosedrinker