Poland’s Nuclear Weapons Offer Draws Russian Criticism, Raises Concerns

Poland’s President Andrzej Duda has offered to host NATO’s nuclear weapons, sparking backlash from Russian state media. Sputnik news agency has condemned NATO’s policy as “destabilizing” and “dangerous”, citing the potential for escalation of global nuclear conflict. The Russian deployment of nuclear weapons in Belarus, which borders Poland, has increased anxiety in Eastern European countries about Russian expansionism. The Kremlin has threatened retaliatory measures if nuclear weapons are stationed in Poland, while NATO maintains its commitment to collective defense.

Russia: West’s Hostility Risks Nuclear War

According to Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, the West’s aggression towards Russia threatens to spark a catastrophic nuclear conflict. He blamed the U.S. for sabotaging arms control agreements and supporting Ukraine, increasing tensions between nuclear powers. Lavrov emphasized the dangers of the AUKUS pact and NATO expansion, and questioned the future of arms control dialog amid the West’s backing of Ukraine.

Russia Considers Confiscating Western Assets After US Bill to Transfer Seized Funds to Ukraine

Russia has warned that it may confiscate Western assets in response to a US House bill that would allow the transfer of seized Russian assets to Ukraine. The bill, known as the REPO Act, passed the House on Monday and would give the Biden administration authority to confiscate billions of dollars’ worth of Russian assets held in US banks and transfer them to Ukraine for reconstruction. Russia has argued that the bill is a provocation and that it could damage the European economy, as over 75% of Russia’s frozen assets are held in the EU.

Global Military Spending Soars, Reaching Record Highs in 2023

According to data released by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), global military spending surged by 6.8% in 2023, the largest year-on-year increase since 2009. This rise was primarily attributed to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and heightened tensions in various regions worldwide. The United States, China, Russia, India, and Saudi Arabia emerged as the top five military spenders, accounting for over 60% of global expenditure.

Russia Claims Gains in Eastern Ukraine as EU Ministers Discuss Continued Support

Russia’s Defense Ministry claims to have captured Novomykhailivka in eastern Ukraine, while Ukraine’s military reports repelling Russian advances in the area. EU foreign and defense ministers met in Luxembourg to discuss ongoing aid to Ukraine and extending sanctions against Iran. The head of Ukrainian military intelligence warns of a worsening situation on the front line in the coming weeks. Despite ammunition shortages, Ukraine continues to fortify its defenses.

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