The Donald Trump administration eased sanctions against Russia, allowing related companies to transfer funds and critical components. This led to a decrease in the effectiveness of existing restrictions, allowing the import of computer chips and military equipment.
The United States of America is discontinuing USAID programs, and the State Department will now manage all foreign aid. This decision was made after an analysis revealed that USAID's activities do not serve U.S. national interests.
From July 1, Ukrainians abroad can submit documents for notarial acts online through the "e-Consul" system. This innovation simplifies the process, allowing citizens to upload necessary data and certificates without a physical visit to diplomatic missions until the last step.
Chinese automotive brands, including BYD and MG SAIC Motor, have achieved more than 9% of the European market share for hybrid and electric vehicles. BYD plans to produce small cars in Europe next year.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed three decrees, synchronizing EU sanctions against Russia and implementing packages of restrictions against Iran. The sanctions apply to individuals and legal entities from various countries, including the Russian Federation, Belarus, and Iran.
The NATO summit in The Hague demonstrated the growth of European defence spending, but calls for a ceasefire in Ukraine indicate a change in mood. NATO has refocused on deterring Russia, while Ukraine faces heavy casualties on the frontline and the risk of losing territory.
At the summit in The Hague, Czech President Petr Pavel suggested to Donald Trump that economic pressure on Russia be increased, similar to "the US success with China". This should force the Kremlin to negotiate, though without causing an economic collapse of the Russian Federation.
The government registered a bill in the Rada on amendments to the State Budget-2025, which provides for an increase in expenditures on security and defense by UAH 412. 4 billion. Additional expenditures will be covered by increasing budget revenues and domestic borrowings.
Leading Chinese EV battery manufacturer Eve Energy will build its second plant in Malaysia, valued at $1. 2 billion, financing the project with funds from a planned Hong Kong listing. The enterprise will produce batteries for energy storage systems, expanding the company's global presence.
Oil prices fell due to a decline in geopolitical risks in the Middle East and an expected increase in OPEC+ production. However, fears of a slowdown in global oil demand are exerting downward pressure.
Donald Trump said he has found a group of "very wealthy people" who are ready to buy TikTok. He awaits approval from China and President Xi Jinping, and will reveal names in about two weeks.
Russia plans to involve Chinese businesses in the construction of infrastructure in occupied Crimea, including the Kerch sea port and the Donuzlav lake infrastructure. The head of the Crimean occupation administration, Sergey Aksyonov, has decided to involve China State Construction Engineering Corporation, which is one of the largest companies in the construction of railway and transport main lines.
China's Guizhou province is again suffering from heavy rains, which has led to the repeated flooding of Rongjiang city. The local football league "Village Super League," which became a sensation on social media and attracted thousands of fans and tourists, has also been flooded.
President Zelenskyy stated that last year, deliveries of machine tools for Russia's military-industrial complex were recorded from at least 12 countries, including China, the US, and Germany.
On Friday, the price of gold fell by more than 1%, reaching its lowest level in almost a month, due to easing geopolitical and trade tensions. Investors are awaiting US inflation data for clues regarding future interest rates.
India's Defense Minister called on China to intensify work on demarcating the Himalayan section of the border. This is the first such public call from a high-ranking Indian official since 2014, amidst the ongoing border conflict.
The introduction of the 18th package of EU sanctions against Russia is delayed due to disagreements among allies. Hungary and Slovakia are blocking the restrictions, demanding guarantees of gas supplies, while the US is not rushing to lower the price cap on Russian oil.
Xiaomi shares soared after the manufacturer sold 200,000 YU7 electric vehicles in three minutes. This exceeded analysts' expectations, which may force Tesla to reconsider prices in China.
The European Council on June 26 approved the extension of sanctions against Russia despite threats from Hungary and Slovakia. Negotiations are currently underway on the 18th package of sanctions, which includes restrictions on pipelines and imports of Russian fuel.
The US has officially signed a trade agreement with China. President Donald Trump also announced plans to conclude a similar agreement with India.
Beijing views SCO countries as an "anchor of stability" amid international conflicts. NATO is observing China's reorganization and military buildup.
The Chinese government has called on NATO to correct its “misconception” of the Asian giant. Earlier, NATO Secretary General Stoltenberg said that China is reorganizing and building up its military power. NATO sees what China, North Korea, and Iran are doing, emphasized the NATO Secretary General.
North Korea opens Wonsan Kalma beach resort to domestic tourists after a six-year delay. According to dictator Kim Jong Un's plans, the resort should stimulate tourism development and attract foreigners, although it is currently only for locals.
U. S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has extended extraordinary measures to avoid exceeding the statutory debt limit. The Treasury will no longer be able to meet all of its obligations without congressional action to raise or suspend the debt limit by mid-to-late summer.
Russia bypasses sanctions by obtaining Western aircraft spare parts through Turkey, China, and the UAE. One billion euros worth of parts entered the Russian Federation between February 2022 and September 2024 through a network of intermediaries.
The United States has imposed sanctions on three Mexican financial companies: CIBanco, Intercam Banco, and Vector Casa de Bolsa, suspecting them of laundering money for cartels and financing fentanyl trafficking from China.
Russia did not suffer from Iran's significant losses in the conflict with Israel, as it has established its own production of "Shahed" and accumulated a significant arsenal of missiles. Moscow is strengthening cooperation with China and North Korea to replenish its military resources.
Russia is preparing the public and military for a potential war with NATO. NATO Secretary General Rutte points to Russia as the biggest existential threat and warns of a possible attack within 3-7 years, while Ukrainian President Zelenskyy believes that Russia will be ready for war with NATO by 2030.
In Guizhou Province, China, a bridge collapsed due to heavy rains, leaving a truck driver trapped in the cab hanging over the abyss. Rescuers successfully rescued the driver after a dramatic operation.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof in The Hague. A new aid package for Ukraine worth 175 million euros, including 100 drone detection radars, and an additional 80 million euros for drones, was discussed.