Author: Nik Martin
India has faced criticism from the West for ramping up imports of Russian fossil fuels amidst Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Despite this, India cites its long-standing ties with Moscow and dependence on imported oil as reasons for the increase. Ahead of a meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Putin, Russia aims to strengthen trade ties to offset Western sanctions. India-Russia Relations: A Closer Look India and Russia have a historical strategic partnership, particularly in defense. However, concerns have arisen over India’s reliance on Russian weapons and the impact of the conflict in Ukraine on defense cooperation. Recent economic opportunities…
German arms exports surged by 30% in the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year, hitting €7.48 billion. Despite the coalition government’s pledge to limit arms sales, exports to Ukraine made up two-thirds of the total, reaching a record high of €4.88 billion. The arms deliveries include air defense systems and heavy artillery to support Ukraine against Russia. Other top recipients of German weapons include Singapore, India, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. Berlin resumed arms sales to Saudi Arabia after easing restrictions imposed due to the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The Ministry stressed that exports to Saudi Arabia…
The sudden death of Belarus’ former ambassador to Germany, Denis Sidorenko, at the age of 48 has shocked the diplomatic community. Sidorenko, who had been serving in Germany since 2016, was recalled by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko earlier this year and was not given a new position. Reports from independent media suggest that Sidorenko died by suicide after experiencing severe psychological stress from repeated interrogations by Belarus’ security services. Belarusian Foreign Minister Vladimir Makei’s unexpected death in November 2022 also raised suspicions of foul play. Independent media initially reported it as a heart attack, but later claimed he had taken…
Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit North Korea on June 18 for a two-day meeting with Kim Jong Un amidst heightened tension on the Korean peninsula. This visit marks Putin’s first to the country in 24 years and highlights the deepening relationship between the two nations. Reports indicate North Korea has been providing military equipment to Russia, despite denials from both parties. The transfers have contributed to North Korea’s expected return to economic growth, with the state’s economy receiving a much-needed boost from weapons deliveries. An expert from Fitch Solutions forecasts a return to positive growth for North…