Ukraine-Russia News
LAST UPDATE: September 13, 2025
Ukrainian Parliament confirms that IMF will push Ukraine to formalize its economy
Ukraine’s parliament confirmed the IMF is pressing for economic formalization as part of its aid program. With nearly $23 billion lost annually to the shadow economy, reforms to improve tax collection and fiscal stability are required.
Insight
For Ukraine, IMF conditions highlight the need for stronger governance even under wartime conditions. Formalization is crucial for fiscal sustainability but will test institutional capacity and anti-corruption reforms.
UK launches new Russia-related sanctions targeting shadow fleet, weapons suppliers
The UK announced new sanctions against 70 ships in Russia’s “shadow fleet” moving oil and 30 entities linked to weapons supplies. The measures follow intensified Russian strikes and a drone incursion into Poland.
Insight
The UK is tightening financial pressure on Russia by targeting gray networks like shadow shipping. This could impact Russia’s revenue streams and highlights London’s role in enforcing sanctions.
EU could phase out Russian oil and gas faster, US energy secretary says
The US energy secretary said the EU could end reliance on Russian oil and gas earlier than the 2028 target. Russian imports have already dropped significantly, replaced partly by US LNG.
Insight
Faster decoupling would strengthen EU energy security and weaken Russia, but supply shocks and cost challenges remain. This aligns with climate and geopolitical priorities.
Russia and Belarus start military exercise near NATO border after drone incursion
Russia and Belarus launched joint “Zapad-2025” drills near the NATO border after a drone incursion into Poland. The exercises span areas including the Baltic and Barents seas.
Insight
The drills are meant to intimidate NATO and demonstrate military readiness. This heightens tensions for Poland and the Baltics, pushing NATO to reinforce its eastern defenses.
NATO Working on Defensive Moves After Poland Drone Incident
NATO is preparing defensive measures after a Russian drone entered Polish airspace. Options include political and military steps to strengthen deterrence in Eastern Europe.
Insight
This signals NATO’s willingness to respond more assertively to hybrid threats like drone incursions. It could lead to a stronger eastern posture and new military commitments.
Poland says Russian drone attack was “no mistake” after Trump comments
Poland rejected Donald Trump’s suggestion that the drone incursion was accidental, calling it a deliberate attack. Warsaw is pressing for strong responses from allies.
Insight
The dispute highlights divisions in narrative between Poland and Trump. Poland’s insistence on intent underscores its demand for NATO solidarity and vigilance against Russia.
Ukrainian Parliament confirms that IMF will push Ukraine to formalize its economy
Ukraine’s parliament confirmed that the IMF will require the country to formalize its economy, reducing the large shadow sector as part of a new support program. The shadow economy is estimated at about UAH 900 billion per year.
Insight
This reflects IMF pressure for stronger fiscal governance at a time when Ukraine is heavily dependent on foreign aid. Implementing reforms will be politically sensitive and requires tackling corruption and enforcement gaps.
UK launches new Russia-related sanctions targeting shadow fleet, weapons suppliers
The UK imposed sanctions on 70 ships in Russia’s “shadow fleet” and 30 companies and individuals involved in supplying Russia’s military. Targets include firms in China and Turkey, as well as energy and weapons suppliers.
Insight
The sanctions aim to disrupt Russia’s oil trade and supply chains, reducing resources for the war in Ukraine. They also highlight the UK’s willingness to pressure third countries enabling Russia.
EU could phase out Russian oil and gas faster, US energy secretary says
The U.S. energy secretary stated that the EU could end reliance on Russian oil and gas earlier than the 2028 target, pointing to progress in cutting imports and expanding alternatives like U.S. LNG.
Insight
Accelerating the phase-out would strengthen Europe’s energy security and weaken Russia’s leverage, but could bring higher costs and infrastructure challenges.
Russia and Belarus start military exercise near NATO border after drone incursion
Russia and Belarus launched joint military drills “Zapad-2025” near NATO borders after a drone incursion into Poland. Exercises also extend into the Baltic and Barents seas.
Insight
The drills serve as both a show of force and a warning to NATO, raising tensions for Eastern European members and pushing the alliance to bolster its defenses.
NATO Working on Defensive Moves After Poland Drone Incident
NATO is preparing defensive and political responses after a Russian drone entered Polish airspace. Measures may include new deployments to strengthen deterrence in Eastern Europe.
Insight
This indicates NATO is considering more proactive defenses against hybrid threats. It could result in stronger eastern posture and tighter coordination among members.
Poland says Russian drone attack was “no mistake” after Trump comments
Poland rejected former President Trump’s claim that the Russian drone incursion could have been accidental, insisting it was deliberate. Warsaw is pressing NATO for a strong response.
Insight
The disagreement shows tension between Poland’s security concerns and Trump’s rhetoric. Poland’s firm stance underscores its demand for allied solidarity.
