Explore

Serbia and Ukraine Strengthen Economic Ties with Free Trade Agreement Plans

Serbia and Ukraine Strengthen Economic Ties with Free Trade Agreement Plans

Serbia and Ukraine have committed to enhancing their economic cooperation, with a focus on finalizing a long-delayed free trade agreement by the end of the year. This development was announced during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's visit to Belgrade, where he met with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic. The two leaders discussed various aspects of their bilateral relationship, including Serbia's support for Ukraine's bid to join the European Union and its territorial integrity. Despite Serbia's refusal to impose sanctions on Russia, a long-time ally, it has condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine and pledged to assist in rebuilding Ukrainian cities. The free trade agreement, which has been under discussion for over two decades, is crucial for Serbia's aspirations to join the World Trade Organization and the EU. The agreement has been stalled due to issues related to quotas and tariffs affecting Ukraine's agricultural sector.

Ukraine Faces Energy Crisis as Russian Strikes Devastate Infrastructure

Ukraine Faces Energy Crisis as Russian Strikes Devastate Infrastructure

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Russian military strikes have destroyed nearly all of Ukraine's thermal power infrastructure, leading to severe energy shortages ahead of winter. During a briefing with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic in Belgrade, Zelenskyy highlighted the challenges Ukraine faces due to the destruction of thermal power plants, train stations, hospitals, universities, and civilian businesses. Serbia has pledged a new package of humanitarian assistance targeting the medical and energy sectors. Zelenskyy also emphasized Ukraine's pursuit of a 'decent peace' with guaranteed security, seeking diplomatic efforts in Washington, Beijing, and other global capitals.

Bulgaria Investigates Drone Explosion Near Romanian Border

Bulgaria Investigates Drone Explosion Near Romanian Border

A drone exploded in Bulgaria near the Romanian border, prompting an investigation by Bulgarian authorities. The incident occurred close to the Trans-Balkan gas pipeline, which connects Turkey and Ukraine. Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev stated that the drone, which carried a significant amount of explosives, was not detected by either Bulgaria or Romania. The explosion caused no casualties or infrastructure damage, as it occurred in a sunflower field. Bulgaria has summoned the Ukrainian ambassador for consultations, as the drone is believed to be of a type used by the Ukrainian military. The incident highlights the increasing number of drone-related events in Eastern Europe amid ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia.

Ukrainian drone attack on an oil hub deep inside Russia kills 13, officials say

Ukrainian drone attack on an oil hub deep inside Russia kills 13, officials say

Authorities in Russia's Tatarstan region say a Ukrainian drone strike on the petroleum hub of Nizhnekamsk killed 13 people and wounded 75 others in one of the deadliest attacks of the 4-year-old war

U.S. Agrees to Monthly Patriot Missile Deliveries to Ukraine Amid Defense Needs

U.S. Agrees to Monthly Patriot Missile Deliveries to Ukraine Amid Defense Needs

President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine has secured an agreement with the United States for monthly deliveries of Patriot air defense missiles. However, he noted that the current volumes for 2026 are lower than in previous years and are insufficient to meet Ukraine's defense needs. Zelensky made this announcement during a joint press conference with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić in Belgrade. The agreement is part of the PURL program, which allows Ukraine to purchase weapons from the U.S. using funds provided by its partners. Despite the agreement, Zelensky emphasized the need for additional interceptors and mentioned ongoing negotiations with European countries like Germany and Poland to secure more supplies.

Ukrainian drone attack on the Russian city of Nizhnekamsk kills 13, authorities say

Ukrainian drone attack on the Russian city of Nizhnekamsk kills 13, authorities say

Authorities in Russia's Tatarstan region say a Ukrainian drone attack on the city of Nizhnekamsk killed 13 people and wounded 48 others

Russian Insurance Companies Halt Coverage for Vessels Amid Ukrainian Strikes in Black and Azov Seas

Russian Insurance Companies Halt Coverage for Vessels Amid Ukrainian Strikes in Black and Azov Seas

Russian insurance companies have reportedly ceased insuring vessels navigating the Black and Azov seas due to increased military and terrorist risks following Ukrainian strikes. According to sources within the Russian shipping and insurance industries, these companies have stopped providing coverage for cargo ships in these areas, which have been declared temporarily dangerous by navigational warnings. The Russian Ministry of Defense issued a warning about potential strikes in these seas from July 12 to 18, leading to this insurance halt. This development comes amid ongoing tensions and military activities in the region, with Ukraine reportedly targeting Russian facilities and vessels as part of its strategic operations.

Russian attacks kill 4 in Kyiv and surrounding region as air defenses fall short

Russian attacks kill 4 in Kyiv and surrounding region as air defenses fall short

Russian attacks on Kyiv and its surrounding region have killed four people, including a child

Ukraine's Zelenskyy arrives for first visit to Russia-friendly Serbia

Ukraine's Zelenskyy arrives for first visit to Russia-friendly Serbia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived for an official visit to Serbia for the first time

US Senate passes Russia sanctions championed by Graham; US House next

US Senate passes Russia sanctions championed by Graham; US House next

By Patricia Zengerle WASHINGTON, Aug 7 (Reuters) - The U.S. Senate easily passed sweeping Russia sanctions legislation on Friday, advancing a long-delayed measure backed by late Senator Lindsey Graham and setting the stage for consideration by the House of Representatives within weeks.

US Senate passes sweeping Russia energy sanctions, next stop US House

US Senate passes sweeping Russia energy sanctions, next stop US House

By Patricia Zengerle WASHINGTON, Aug 7 (Reuters) - The U.S. Senate easily passed sweeping Russia sanctions legislation on Friday, advancing a long-delayed measure backed by the late Senator Lindsey Graham and setting the stage for consideration by the House of Representatives as soon as next month.