New U.S. sanctions targeting Gazprombank, Russia’s third-largest bank, are under consideration. The sanctions, expected by the end of November, would prohibit Gazprombank from transactions with American banks, impacting its role in gas settlements with Europe and its management of substantial Russian foreign currency reserves. This action follows previous, less stringent Western sanctions that have allowed Gazprombank to retain access to SWIFT and major currencies, despite its connections to Kremlin insiders. The move has been communicated to G7 partners.
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Returning Russian soldiers from the war in Ukraine are responsible for at least 242 deaths and 227 serious injuries among civilians, according to reports from independent Russian media. Many perpetrators are former convicts recruited to fight, highlighting a significant societal problem exacerbated by the conflict. The wave of violence stems partly from the recruitment of convicts, including those with violent criminal histories, who often feel emboldened by their service. This surge in violence is causing widespread concern and eroding traditional societal norms of morality and justice. The situation is further complicated by the glorification of these individuals upon return, despite their prior criminal offenses.
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In response to a large-scale Russian missile and drone attack on western Ukraine, Polish and allied aircraft were scrambled to patrol Polish airspace. The Polish military deployed fighter jets and activated ground-based air defenses to maintain heightened security along the border. This action follows numerous previous instances of Polish airspace readiness measures prompted by Russian attacks on Ukraine. The ongoing situation is being closely monitored by the Polish Operational Command.
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Ukraine claims to have destroyed its 1,000th Russian anti-aircraft missile system, a BUK-M1, using a domestically produced drone. The strike, filmed and released by Ukraine’s Interior Ministry, targeted the system in a frontline hotspot, significantly degrading Russia’s air defenses. While the footage remains unverified, this milestone highlights Ukraine’s increasing reliance on and success with drone technology in the conflict. The destroyed system, valued at $10 million, represents a notable blow to Russia’s military capabilities.
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Senators Reed and Shaheen expressed serious concerns about Elon Musk’s security clearance and reliability as a government contractor, citing his undisclosed communications with foreign officials, including alleged contacts with a Kremlin official involved in spreading propaganda. Musk’s involvement in Trump’s presidential campaign and diplomatic efforts, alongside his SpaceX’s deep integration into US defense and intelligence, further fueled these concerns. The senators highlighted the potential national security risks posed by these actions, particularly given Russia’s ambitions in space. The letter to the Attorney General and Defense Department Inspector General requests an investigation into these matters.
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Ukrainian intelligence reports that North Korea has supplied Russia with 50 self-propelled howitzers and 20 multiple launch rocket systems, some of which have been deployed to the Kursk Oblast. This follows reports of 11,000 North Korean troops training alongside Russian forces, and previous deliveries of millions of artillery shells. These shipments bolster Russia’s military efforts amidst dwindling supplies and Western sanctions. The deepening Russia-North Korea alliance contrasts with South Korea’s growing support for Ukraine, including the consideration of lethal aid.
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Following a meeting in Kyiv, Ukrainian and Japanese Foreign Ministers Andrii Sybiha and Takeshi Iwaya announced a strengthened commitment to escalating sanctions against Russia and preventing sanctions evasion. Collaboration on Ukraine’s Victory Plan and Peace Formula implementation was also confirmed, alongside continued efforts toward visa liberalization. Japan will host a mine action conference for Ukraine next fall and plans further economic cooperation, including a December visit from Ukraine’s First Vice Prime Minister. The visit marked one of the first by a Japanese official to Ukraine after the formation of Japan’s new government.
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Three Russian oil refineries—Tuapse, Ilyich, and Novoshakhtinsk—have curtailed or halted production due to mounting losses stemming from Ukrainian drone strikes, Western sanctions, and reduced profit margins. These plants, operating at reduced capacity or facing temporary closures, are experiencing significant financial strain, selling fuel at a discount and incurring high interest rates. The resulting drop in fuel exports and revenue impacts the state budget, exacerbating existing economic pressures. This situation is further complicated by increased oil costs exceeding the profit threshold for independent refiners.
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A Ukrainian lieutenant colonel, commanding a special operations unit, has been arrested for treason. The officer, acting as a Russian GRU mole since spring 2024, provided intelligence on Ukrainian operations in southern Ukraine, enabling Russian forces to target Ukrainian personnel. This intelligence included planned movements, weaponry, and targets of Ukrainian special forces. The SBU, with assistance from Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi, apprehended the suspect, seizing communication and data storage devices. He faces a life sentence if convicted.
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Gazprom will halt natural gas deliveries to Austria this weekend, ending a long-standing energy relationship. Austria’s largest energy supplier, OMV, anticipated this, having secured alternative supply routes from Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands. The country’s gas storage facilities are full, ensuring sufficient supply and dismissing fears of shortages. Chancellor Nehammer confirmed Austria’s secure energy position and reaffirmed unwavering support for Ukraine, despite Gazprom’s actions.
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John Q. Hosedrinker