High-Stakes Summit: Putin’s Lightning Tour to Middle East
Russian President Vladimir Putin, accompanied by four Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets, visits Saudi Arabia and UAE in a one-day trip. Scheduled meetings include talks with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Discussions are expected to address Western sanctions, regional challenges, and Moscow’s concerns regarding oil in the Middle East. Source: Aljazeera
US is quietly developing post-war Gaza plan
An international force will be needed to stabilise the region, followed by a “revitalized” Palestinian Authority taking over in longer term. While Arab countries appear hesitant/ outright unwilling to control post-war Gaza, Biden administration has ruled out sending US troops there altogether. Source: Nahal Toosi, Politico
Ukraine War : NATO Chief Warns of ‘Bad News’ amid Stalemate with Russia
NATO Secretary-General Stoltenberg warned that the Ukraine war could get worse and allies should be prepared for “bad news”, as fears grow of a stalemate with Russia and allies, including US, debate whether to send more aid to the country. Source: Lauren Sforza, The Hill
Indian Army Deploys Hermes Drones for Border Supply and Surveillance
Indian Army plans to use satellite dependent drones to supply medicines and food at Border Observation Posts along LAC in Ladakh, Leh, and north-eastern India. It has purchased Israeli medium-altitude long endurance Hermes Starliner 900 drones for communication surveillance missions. Vulnerable to Chinese and Pakistani attacks, these drones will be truly tested in wartime. Source: Kartik Bommakanti, ORF