Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that he is willing to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, but only during the “final stage” of the peace talks. Speaking at the Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin confirmed that another round of negotiations will be held after June 22. He emphasised Russia’s openness to “substantive” talks, citing previous agreements on prisoner exchanges. Meanwhile, deadly Russian drone and missile attacks on Kyiv killed 28 people, marking the capital’s deadliest assault this year. Despite expressing readiness for dialogue, Putin again questioned Zelenskyy’s legitimacy—an accusation Ukraine and its allies have dismissed as baseless.
EU SPLIT OVER ISRAEL’S IRAN STRIKE
The European Union remains divided over Israel’s recent strikes on Iran, with no unanimous agreement on whether they align with international law. Around 15 EU states support acknowledging Israel’s right to self-defence, but others remain skeptical, citing a lack of clear justification. Tensions escalated after Commission President Ursula von der Leyen tweeted support for Israel, bypassing the EU Council’s more cautious official stance. Critics argue that preemptive strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities may be unlawful. With an upcoming summit and growing geopolitical strain, the bloc struggles to form a united position on the unfolding Middle East conflict.
GULF STATES FEAR NUCLEAR FALLOUT
Gulf Arab states are on high alert amid fears of nuclear contamination and Iranian reprisals if Israel or the U.S. target Iran’s nuclear facilities. Emergency shelters are being prepared in Bahrain, while Oman is circulating safety protocols. Nearly 60 million people in the region depend on desalinated Gulf waters, vulnerable to radioactive leaks. Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant is closer to Gulf capitals than to Tehran, intensifying anxiety. While regional leaders stress calm, public worry is growing. The Gulf Cooperation Council has activated emergency measures, as speculation mounts over a possible U.S. military strike and its unpredictable aftermath.
UKRAINE LEGALIZES DUAL CITIZENSHIP RIGHTS
Ukraine’s parliament has approved a bill legalizing dual citizenship to encourage millions of displaced Ukrainians to return home. The law, proposed by President Zelenskyy, awaits only his signature to come into force. It aims to reunite Ukrainians worldwide, especially those who fled during Russia’s 2014 and 2022 invasions. Exceptions include Russian citizens and individuals from countries that don’t recognize Ukraine’s sovereignty. The government hopes one-third of recent emigrants will return after peace is achieved. Kyiv also views this as a strategic move to compete in Europe’s labour market and promote national unity and post-war recovery.
IAEA LOSES TRACK OF URANIUM
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has lost track of Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpile amid Israel’s ongoing military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi confirmed inspections at key sites, including the Isfahan facility, have halted due to the conflict, and the agency remains uninformed about Iran’s protective measures. Iran’s 409 kg of uranium—enough for ten warheads—is now unaccounted for. Meanwhile, Iran’s missile attack damaged Soroka Hospital in Israel, injuring civilians. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu condemned the act, vowing retaliation. The crisis has escalated regional and nuclear security concerns.
