Ukraine-Russia News
LAST UPDATE: June 28, 2025
Putin says Russia plans to cut military spending from next year
President Vladimir Putin announced on June 27 2025 that Russia intends to reduce military spending starting next year. He emphasized that this diverges from NATO’s upcoming 5%‑of‑GDP defense spending target and noted that current defense outlays—6.3% of GDP—are inflating the economy. Budget discussions are ongoing among ministries.
Insight
Putin’s announcement signals a possible shift from wartime spending to fiscal consolidation, acknowledging economic pressure. However, Western skepticism remains since military budgets have risen sharply since the Ukraine conflict began (reuters.com).
Trump thinks something will happen to settle Russia’s war in Ukraine
At the June 25 NATO summit in The Hague, former U.S. President Trump stated that he would speak to Putin soon about ending the Ukraine war, noting both Putin and Zelenskiy “want to settle.” He suggested direct talks could facilitate peace .
Insight
Trump’s renewed emphasis on direct diplomacy reflects a personal, transactional approach to conflict resolution. But without coordinated support from allies or clear terms, such talk risks being symbolic rather than substantive.
Russia and Malaysia hold Moscow talks on potential nuclear energy cooperation
Officials from Rosatom and a Malaysian delegation visited the Leningrad region and discussed cooperation in nuclear energy. Talks included potential technology sharing and feasibility for Malaysian reactor projects .
Insight
This engagement demonstrates Russia’s strategic pivot toward energy diplomacy, leveraging nuclear technology to strengthen ties in Southeast Asia. It serves both economic interests and geopolitical influence amid scrutiny from Western nations.
Kremlin says Estonia’s readiness to host nuclear-capable NATO jets threatens Russia
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reacted strongly after Estonia’s Defence Minister expressed willingness to host U.S. F‑35A jets capable of nuclear weapons. Moscow viewed this as a direct threat to its security, amid NATO’s broader nuclear integration efforts in the Baltics .
Insight
Russia characterizes NATO’s nuclear posture as aggressive encirclement. Estonia’s stance deepens risk of miscalculations, reinforcing Moscow’s narrative that NATO’s expanding capabilities near Russian borders undermine regional stability.
Germany considers law reform to block Russian-owned Nord Stream takeover
On June 27 2025, Germany’s Economy Ministry disclosed plans to amend foreign trade laws. The aim is to prevent any takeover of Nord Stream 2—currently Gazprom-owned and in insolvency—after unexplained 2022 explosions. Chancellor Merz supports the change .
Insight
This move marks Germany’s continued decoupling from Russian energy and reflects a broader shift toward ensuring critical infrastructure remains protected from geopolitical vulnerabilities. Berlin is establishing legal mechanisms to solidify energy security.
Fearing war with Russia, Finland hardens NATO’s northern frontier
Reuters
Since joining NATO in 2023, Finland has significantly beefed up its 1,340 km border with Russia—expanding reservist forces, building a surveillance-equipped fence, and planning a NATO command HQ in Mikkeli. Measures include landmine stockpiling and age-limit increases for reservists. Border closures have disrupted regional commerce and separated families. Satellite images suggest Russia is responding by reactivating bases nearby.
Insight
Finland’s actions reflect deep-seated security anxiety and a defensive posture aimed at deterrence. However, the social and economic impact on border communities highlights the challenge of balancing national security with regional well-being.
