Daily brief
The Kremlin stated that Ukraine's attempts at 'energy blackmail' will backfire, as Russia faces ongoing international pressure over its oil exports. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump commented that easing oil prices would 'take pressure off' after a US waiver allowed India to continue importing Russian crude. A US energy official defended the sanctions waiver, attributing higher gas prices to market fear rather than policy.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is set to meet with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to advocate for the restart of oil flows through the Druzhba pipeline to Slovakia.
The first passenger train in six years has crossed the border between Russia and China, marking a restoration of direct rail travel.
Qatar Airways will operate an evacuation flight from Doha to Moscow, according to reports.
Iran's use of Shahed drones has reportedly accelerated India's own projects to develop strike drones.