Ukraine-Russia News
LAST UPDATE: July 23, 2025
Third round of Ukraine-Russia talks expected in Turkey
Ukraine and Russia are scheduled to hold a third round of peace talks in Istanbul focusing on ceasefire terms and potential humanitarian agreements.
Insight
While no breakthrough is expected, continued dialogue signals both sides’ interest in keeping diplomatic channels open.
Protests Break Out After Ukraine Moves to Defang U.S.-Backed Anticorruption Agency
Protests erupted in Ukraine after the government limited the independence of NABU and SAPO, prompting fears of reform backsliding and donor backlash.
Insight
Public demonstrations reflect strong civil society engagement and rising concern over Ukraine’s EU accession trajectory.
Ukraine’s Zelenskiy promises joint plan to fight corruption
President Zelenskiy promised to present a joint anti-corruption plan within two weeks following public protests against efforts to weaken key oversight institutions.
Insight
The commitment attempts to rebuild trust with both citizens and international partners amid heightened scrutiny.
France says it is not too late for Ukraine to reverse decision on anti-corruption agencies
France’s European Affairs Minister Benjamin Haddad said it’s “not too late” for Ukraine to reverse its rollback of autonomy for NABU and SAPO anti-corruption agencies, warning Europe will remain vigilant.
Insight
France’s warning underscores the importance of institutional integrity for Ukraine’s EU integration; any reversal could trigger broader international pressure.
US energy chief says sanctioning Russian oil to end Ukraine war a possibility
U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said on Fox News that sanctioning Russian oil—potentially with 100% tariffs—is “a very real possibility” aimed at pressuring Moscow to end the war in Ukraine by September.
Insight
The proposal signals a sharp escalation in US sanctions policy, leveraging its energy dominance to inflict economic pain on Russia, though global market repercussions remain a concern.
