Apple removed 25 VPN applications from its Russian App Store at the request of Roskomnadzor, Russia’s state communications watchdog. This move tightens internet freedoms in Russia, where the government often blocks access to Western social media and digital platforms. Demand for VPNs in Russia surged after the government restricted access to Western services following President…

China and Belarus started joint military exercises near the Polish and Ukrainian borders, raising concerns across Europe. The drills, called “Eagle Assault,” are occurring near Brest, Belarus, directly on the Polish border and just 30 miles from Ukraine’s northern frontier. The Belarusian Defense Ministry confirmed the arrival of Chinese military personnel, marking the first time…

Candidates look to send a message as President Joe Biden delivers a speech at the NATO summit and former President Donald Trump spoke at a Florida rally. And the U.S.-built pier meant to bring humanitarian aid to Gaza looks to be in its final days. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Wednesday, July 10,…

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to Moscow garnered attention after a bombing in Ukraine killed several people at a children’s hospital in Kyiv. Despite Western disapproval, Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin demonstrated their close relationship, with Putin warmly embracing Modi and referring to him as his “dearest friend.” The two leaders discussed…

Germany passed a new law allowing renters to install plug-in solar panels on their balconies. The new law significantly limits the ability of landlords and homeowners associations to prevent such installations. Only in cases where there is a compelling reason can these entities intervene. Renters in Germany can now install solar energy systems with a…

A Russian pilot was reportedly offered $3 million to steal a bomber and defect to Ukraine, according to Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB). The FSB claimed it thwarted a Ukrainian attempt to hijack a Russian Tu-22M3 supersonic strategic bomber, disrupting the plan before it could unfold. Ukrainian intelligence allegedly tried to entice the pilot with…

World leaders are coming to Washington, D.C., during the week of July 7 for the annual NATO summit. The meeting will mark the military alliance’s 75th anniversary. Sens. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., and Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., will lead the congressional delegation. They will be tasked with ensuring the United States’ commitment to Ukraine’s security remains strong.…

Oil and gas revenues have been Russia’s most important source of income, accounting for up to half of the total Russian budget over the last decade. Despite severe sanctions imposed by the West to curb Russian energy income following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Moscow’s oil revenues don’t seem to have been significantly affected. Watch…

In this episode of Weapons and Warfare, the focus is on moral injury — a type of trauma that can’t be seen. Host Ryan Robertson delves into the topic, exploring its definition and the level of understanding surrounding it. The episode highlights experts’ insights and the necessary steps to address moral injury within the special…

New satellite imagery shows China may be expanding electronic spying stations in Cuba. The island is just 90 miles south of Florida, giving it an ideal position to monitor sensitive U.S. communications and maritime activity in the region. This latest development follows the Pentagon’s 2023 denial of a reported agreement between China and Cuba to…