{{dayPoint.date | date : 'd MMMM yyyy'}}

{{newsPoint.title}}

{{newsPoint.title+ ' '}}

{{newsPoint.subtitle}}

World Bank approves $1.25 bln loan to Nigeria for economic development — Bloomberg

The financing will be directed toward developing capital markets, modernizing the digital economy and e-government, and expanding access to electricity

NEW YORK, July 1. /TASS/. The World Bank (WB) has approved a $1.25 billion loan to Nigeria to support economic reforms, develop infrastructure, and create jobs, Bloomberg reported.

According to the agency, the funds will be provided under a six-year program. The financing will be directed toward developing capital markets, modernizing the digital economy and e-government, and expanding access to electricity. In addition, the program includes measures to improve healthcare and nutrition for 40 million people and support millions of farmers.

The World Bank noted that the reforms implemented by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu since 2023 — including the removal of gasoline subsidies, liberalization of the foreign exchange market, adjustments to electricity tariffs, and tax system overhaul — have accelerated economic growth, increased budget revenues, and boosted investor confidence. According to Bloomberg, the new loan will be part of a broader support package for Nigeria covering energy, digital infrastructure, agriculture, and the social sector.

IN BRIEF: Novak’s key statements on Russia’s gasoline supply and fuel prices

The Russian deputy PM stressed that the fuel situation is monitored and adjusted on a daily basis

Oman proposes Strait of Hormuz fee plan to US — newspaper

According to the report, Iran and Oman are moving forward with plans to collect payment for ships transiting the strait, despite public US objections

Czech government party wants to strip Zelensky of country's highest order

Lower house of parliament deputy Jindrich Rejchl, who put forward the initiative, said he was inspired by Poland’s example.

Artillery from 810th Brigade destroy 10 Ukrainian UAV centers in Sumy Region in one week

The enemy's ability to coordinate drone operations in this sector of the front has been effectively neutralized

Russia to send aircraft to Turkey to fight forest fires

In response to a request from the Turkish authorities, two Be-200 aircraft will soon be deployed to support efforts in extinguishing seasonal wildfires

German opposition politician listed on Ukraine’s database of unwanted persons

Christian Engel is accused of expressing public support for Russia, discrediting Ukraine, and undermining international support for Kiev

Russia calls for international attention to Kiev’s crimes — Kremlin

Dmitry Peskov stressed that such crimes are conducted against civilian population

Russia to comply with international humanitarian law no matter what — top diplomat

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with International Red Cross Committee President Mirjana Spoljaric in Moscow

OPEC+ countries’ quota to increase by more than 1 mbd in July

In light of this, the oil production limit for OPEC+ states stands at 30.633 mbd in July, compared to 29.548 mbd in Jun

Cuba requests UNGA meeting on July 7 over need to end US blockade — top diplomat

Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla emphasized that Cuba posed no threat to the United States

Europe to take more responsibility for itself, Ukraine in 'NATO 3.0' — Rutte

The secretary general said the alliance will be "a stronger European-led NATO"

EU is arming Moldova to spark war with Transnistria — State Duma member

Alyona Arshinova said that Moldovan President Maia Sandu and her European allies seem intent on seizing Transnistrian industry and covering all the costs of such a conflict

Head of Lebanese parliament vows to unite opponents of agreement with Israel

Nabih Berri is trying to prevent an escalation of discontent that could lead to an internal conflict that threatens civil peace

Roscosmos, NASA define strategy for safe deorbiting of ISS

The report highlights that in May, international partners reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining ISS operations until 2030

Senior Russian senator warns of 'joint response' if Ukraine attack Belarus

Konstantin Kosachev emphasized that Russia and Belarus were part of the Union State and military allies

EU cannot be allowed at negotiating table on Ukraine — senior Russian senator

At the same time, Konstantin Kosachev noted that dialogue with individual EU leaders is possible, but it should not take the form of a "formal negotiation process"

France supports terrorists to further its interests — Russian Security Council

Alexander Venediktov also noted that "Ukraine is actively involved in this, including on the African continent"

Liberation of Rovnoye makes it possible to establish bridgehead for offensive on Dolinka

By advancing near Rovnoye, the Russian army will be able to straighten the front line in the Lyubitskoye-Komsomolskoye sector, military expert Andrey Marochko added

Russian troops begin fighting for Osykovo northwest of Konstantinovka in DPR — expert

According to Andrey Marochko, the Ukrainian army is beginning to face elements of a collapsing front line in this direction

FSB seizes 500 kg of cocaine, apprehends drug trafficking organizer in St. Petersburg

Officers also seized digital storage devices containing cryptocurrency wallets with electronic payment assets equivalent to $613,000

Kiev to persist with Western assassination attempts against Ukrainian oligarchs — expert

According to Vladimir Karasev, while Kiev carries out assassination attempts against current or former Ukrainian citizens, the leaders of European countries will look the other way

Russian Cabinet closes border crossings with Baltic States, Finland

The Russian Foreign Ministry was instructed to notify Riga, Tallinn and Helsinki about the decision made by Moscow and effective from July 1

Russian troops liberate three communities in Ukraine operation over past day — top brass

Russia’s Battlegroup South inflicted more than 175 casualties on Ukrainian troops and destroyed two enemy armored combat vehicles in its area of responsibility over the past day, the Defense Ministry reported

Kiev engulfed in acrid cloud from Chernobyl, fresh air is gone — journalist

Levels of harmful particles are exceeding safe limits

Newly formed Russian mobile units assume combat duty to protect energy sites from drones

During several weeks of training, the mobile fire groups honed the skills of protecting strategic facilities from aerial threats

Russia’s Battlegroup Center deploys latest BM-70 drones with 100 km strike range

The BM-70 drone is outfitted with a powerful payload capable of penetrating reinforced concrete shelters and taking facilities out of service

Protection against UAV attacks, AI use: statements by Russia’s defense chief

Andrey Belousov said that Russia is actively introducing artificial intelligence systems in its air defenses and the results will be seen by November

Congress fails to pass resolution against US forces fighting in Lebanon

The document was supported by 189 votes and opposed by 235

Russia urges Kabul and Islamabad to end armed conflict — Foreign Ministry

The ministry referred to a new tragic episode, Pakistan’s airstrikes on the eastern Afghan provinces of Paktya, Paktika and Konar on the night of June 29

Zelensky’s 'pantheon of heroes' move will cost Ukraine — former Polish PM

Mateusz Morawiecki clarified that "the cult of the UPA" did not strengthen Ukraine, but rather, it weakened its authority, complicated relations with allies, and distanced Ukraine from Western integration

US expects report from NATO allies on increase in military spending on July 7-8

The NATO countries agreed last year with Washington’s suggestion to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035

Iran has not yet gained access to $6 bln of its assets in Qatar — NYP

According to the newspaper, Iran wanted its assets transferred as a lump-sum payment, but Washington advocates splitting the amount

Estonian presidential adviser admits Tallin assists Kiev forces’ attacks on St. Petersburg

Madis Roll clarified Estonia's stance regarding drone incidents that have fallen on Estonian territory, emphasizing that Tallinn does not blame Ukraine

Russian forces establish foothold along Seversky Donets-Donbass Canal — military expert

Andrey Marochko noted that with Malinovka under control, Russian servicemen "can advance in various areas"

Russian forces strike Ukrainian army positions by FAB bombs in Zaporozhye, Sumy areas

The ministry uploaded video footage of Su-34 bombers destroying the designated targets

Ukrainian parliament approves creation of 'national pantheon'

287 lawmakers voted in favor of the bill

Russian Federation Council considers Zelensky’s threats against Belarus serious

According to Konstantin Kosachev, Zelensky's words should be taken seriously because he is "an irrational and unpredictable man", obsessed with a thirst for power

Press review: Peace in Lebanon under threat and Germany readies military draft return

Top stories from the Russian press on Tuesday, June 30th

Monaco authorities do not consider June 29 explosion to be terrorist attack — prosecutor

Stephane Thibault said that Monaco’s law enforcement agencies are currently working with their French counterparts to identify the person who planted the explosive device

Russian-Finland agreement on double taxation avoidance suspended as of July 1

Russia’s Finance Ministry previously announced that the Finnish government was fully suspending the agreement

Aftermath of Ukrainian drone attack on Russian regions, 179 downed drones

A Ukrainian drone strike wounded three ambulance workers in the Nikitovsky district of Gorlovka in the Donetsk People's Republic

Press review: US-Iran truce strains and EU struggles on new Russia sanctions

Top stories from the Russian press on Wednesday, July 1st

Russia-Ukraine prisoner swap, Western pressure on ICRC: top diplomat’s key statements

Russia supports a stronger role for the International Committee of the Red Cross based on the principles of impartiality and independence, the Russian foreign minister emphasized

Kiev's sponsors refuse to respond to deaths of children in Russia in airstrikes — MP

Roza Chemeris' comments came in response to the overnight strike by Ukrainian forces that resulted in the death of a six-month-old baby in Yegoryevsk, near Moscow

NATO chief admits to sleepless nights over Russia

According to Mark Rutte, Russia is the main threat for the alliance at present and in the longer term

Control over Malinovka enables Russian Armed Forces to advance on Kramatorsk — expert

Following the liberation of Malinovka, significant, broad operational vistas are opening up, Andrey Marochko noted

China to accelerate development of world-class armed forces — Xi Jinping

The Chinese leader emphasized that "a strong country must have a strong military" and that national security is impossible without powerful armed forces

Militants from Sudan attack city in CAR, Russian specialists carry out airstrike

The source noted that the militants, using civilians as shields, have dispersed into nearby residential areas

Prisoner exchange issue to be discussed during ICRC president's meetings in Moscow — MFA

Sergey Lavrov said the issue will also be addressed during the ICRC president’s meetings at the Russian Defense Ministry, as well as with Russia’s Human Rights Commissioner Yana Lantratova and Presidential Commissioner for Children’s Rights Maria Lvova-Belova

Strait of Hormuz to be free of tolls, Vance says

JD Vance stressed that the United States still has a lot of leverage points on Iran

NATO cannot agree on terms of assistance to Kiev over Italy's position — paper

Initially the text was supposed to mention the continuation of assistance in 2027 "at least at a comparable level," but Italy opposed the prolongation

Haaland’s goal propels Norway to Round of 16 at FIFA World Cup

Norway will play Brazil

Iran exports over 40 mln barrels of oil after US blockade lifted — parliament speaker

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf recalled that passage through the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz was opened to the Islamic republic’s commercial vessels and oil tankers

ICRC to make every effort to assist civilians in Ukraine conflict — president

"This work will continue for as long as civilians continue to be under pressure," Mirjana Spoljaric said

Lithuanian president appoints Social Democratic Party leader Sinkevicius as prime minister

The newly appointed prime minister must present to parliament the composition of his cabinet and the government's program

Russian troops in Krasny Liman come across Colombian mercenaries fighting for Ukraine

The commander of a motorized rifle battalion reported that Ukrainian forces in Krasny Liman are not attempting any counterattacks but are putting up sporadic resistance while hiding in basements

Russia succeeds in creating strike UAV industry comparable to nuclear industry — expert

Dmitry Kuzyakin underscored that the integration of drones into modern warfare marks a fundamental shift from previous conflicts

More than 6,000 people rescued after earthquake in Venezuela

Chairman of the National Assembly Jorge Rodrigue said that 80,870 families were helped

Bank of Russia crafting defense strategy for Euroclear court battle in Belgium

The Bank of Russia is aware of Euroclear's lawsuit in Belgium

Russia destroys up to platoon of Ukrainian troops in Novoskelevatoye

Assault units of the 36th separate motorized rifle brigade of the 29th army of Battlegroup East have liberated Novoskelevatoye

Ukraine loses over 38,000 servicemen, mercenaries in June — military expert

According to Andrey Marochko, this is 7,180 more than in May

Investigators assume Ukrainian security service behind Monaco blast — Le Figaro

The attack looks more like a 'warning' than a premeditated murder attempt, the newspaper said

Top Cuban diplomat points to lack of progress in talks with US

Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla also mentioned the ongoing spread of "toxic and false information", including through the media, aimed at distorting the situation in the Latin American country

Businessman Yermolayev may support candidates opposed to Zelensky — expert

Yevgeny Brykov added that Western countries are actively promoting alternative candidates for Ukraine’s presidency

Euroclear files lawsuit against Bank of Russia to block 18.2 trln ruble recovery — Echo

On May 26, the Moscow Arbitration Court granted the central bank's motion to enforce the ruling in its lawsuit against Euroclear

Lavrov discusses Persian Gulf situation with Bahraini foreign minister

The foreign ministers stressed the need for a strict compliance by all parties involved in the armed confrontation with the memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran

World central banks intend to reduce dollar share in reserves — Reuters

Central banks plan to increase their holdings of gold and are showing heightened interest in several other reserve currencies

US, Iranian delegations begin indirect talks in Doha — TV channel

According to Al Arabiya, the US delegation has already begun consulting with Qatari representatives

RuID experiment for foreigners will run until end of 2027 — MP

The experiment was originally scheduled to run until June 30, 2026

Russia plans to send volunteers on humanitarian missions abroad — newspaper

According to the report, Russia will form an international volunteer reserve in order to provide targeted assistance abroad

Putin, Russian Security Council members discuss development of westernmost region

The Russian leader added that several officials were expected to deliver reports

Republican convention ahead of US congressional election to be held in Dallas in September

The US leader indicated that the convention will aim to draw attention to measures taken by his administration, including those in the socio-economic sphere

White House puts cost of Iran war at about $30 billion

White House Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought said he learned about it from the Department of War

Kim Jong Un sends Xi Jinping message marking Chinese Communist Party’s 105th anniversary

The message states that the Chinese Communist Party has written a brilliant chapter in the nation’s history

Mbappe sets record for most goals scored in World Cup knockout stages

Kylian Mbappe scored in the Round of 16 match against Sweden

Amur Shipyard sets afloat small missile ship Shtorm

The launch was executed using the Amurets launching pontoon, produced by the shipbuilders as part of the United Shipbuilding Corporation’s dock program

Russia receives no reaction from UN regarding Ukrainian army’s strike on Starobelsk — MFA

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Alimov emphasized that all letters from the Secretary-General have been very disappointing as they contained no substantive answers

Russian troops liberate two settlements in Dnepropetrovsk, Zaporozhye regions

Units of Battlegroup East moved deeper into enemy defenses, liberating the settlement of Pisantsy and the settlement of Novosyolovka

Envoy says Zelensky informed of presidential bid intention

The media outlet reported that Zelensky was prepared to offer Zaluzhny positions in the government if he agreed not to run, but the former commander-in-chief said he could not do so because many Ukrainians had placed their hopes in him

Lavrov, top Bahraini diplomat discuss situation in Persian Gulf

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Bahraini counterpart Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani also agreed to maintain close cooperation on Middle East issues within the UN Security Council

Macroeconomic indicators should not turn into 'fetish' — Russian Economy Minister

Maxim Reshetnikov noted that investment is largely a matter of trust and sentiment

Russian Solntsepyok heavy flamethrower torches Ukrainian stronghold near Krasny Liman

The special operations group commander with the call sign Zmei said that the Solntsepyok heavy flamethrower system was operating daily, providing support to advancing assault groups

'Major overhaul' of state: Kazakhstan begins operating under new constitution

One of the key innovations was the restructuring of the legislative branch

More than 500,000 Venezuelans in need of emergency food assistance — UN

The WFP is urgently appealing for an initial $50 million to provide emergency food assistance

IN BRIEF: Putin’s key statements on proposal to limit combat zone, special op progress

The Russian president said that Ukrainian strikes on Russia’s infrastructure do not affect the situation at the front or the position along the line of engagement

Gazprom confirms receipt of Ukraine’s $1.65 billion gas debt repayment

The information was confirmed by Gazprom spokesman Sergey Kupiyanov

Diplomat slams Estonian authorities as ‘Kiev’s accomplices’ over attack on St. Petersburg

Maria Zakharova recalled that Estonia's political elite had sided with terrorist Dudayev in the 1990s

NATO chief says US flew 5,000 sorties from bases in Europe during operation against Iran

This confirms that Europe remains a key military ally of Washington, Mark Rutte said

Russian specialists create micro helicopter to overcome minefields and water obstacles

The new technologies made it possible to combine the maneuverability of an ATV and a helicopter

Ukraine may be involved in assassination attempt on Yermolayev — newspaper

The publication names two main versions of the assassination attempt

Russia to open diplomatic missions in Gambia, Liberia, Togo, Union of Comoros — Lavrov

The Russian foreign minister added that a new department for partnership with Africa was established

Iranian oil prices rise 20% after suspension of US sanctions — parliament speaker

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf noted that oil revenues are being transferred to the relevant accounts

Lukashenko off on official visit to Indonesia — Pool of First

The president of Belarus will meet with Indonesian leader Prabowo Subianto in a narrow and expanded format

Kiev seeks €6.6 bln from EU fund earmarked to compensate member states — Reuters

Ukraine reportedly requires €136 bln for defense this year, allegedly being able cover €53 bln on its own

Polish president plans to limit contact with Zelensky over Bandera row — newspaper

Karol Nawrocki may make an announcement on this track on July 11

Terrorist attack in Monaco was likely caused by criminal strife in Kiev — expert

It seems highly probable that this attack was a result of settling scores between tightly knit criminal groups vying for influence over illicit resource, Alexander Protsenko said

Ukrainian army attacks DPR 15 times over past 24 hours wounding six people

Reports indicate that six civilians were wounded

FACTBOX: Bank of Russia statements on cash demand, oil prices and key rate path

The regulator did not rule out a higher path for the key interest rate over the medium term

Senior Russian senator calls potential Starmer successor 'dark horse'

Konstantin Kosachev noted that Andy Burnham was "co-opted into Parliament," otherwise, he would never have made it into the circle of top state officials

Public transport in Crimea provided with fuel — head of region

Sergey Aksenov added that limited amount of fuel will be available for sale in the near future

Xi Jinping calls reunification with Taiwan Chinese Communist Party’s ‘historic mission’

The Chinese leader noted that Beijing intended to adhere to the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus, resolutely combat "separatist forces advocating Taiwan independence" and resist external interference