For the first time since Russia’s 2022 invasion, Europe’s military-industrial output for Ukraine (€35.1B) has surpassed the US (€30.7B).

The EU and other European states have also overtaken the US in total military aid, tanks, and other key weapons, with Germany the top donor by value.

Source: Defense News

UEFA said its “Stop Killing Children — Stop Killing Civilians” banner displayed before the Super Cup final was a humanitarian message, not a political one.

White House on the Trump-Putin meeting:

Trump wants to exhaust all options to have a peaceful end to the war.

Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei and the clerical power structure have reached a consensus to resume nuclear negotiations with the US, viewing them as vital to the Islamic Republic’s survival.

Source: Reuters, citing insiders

Iranian political insider to Reuters:

The Iranian leadership leans towards talks as they have seen the cost of military confrontation.

Since December 8, 2024, 411,649 Syrian nationals have voluntarily returned home under Türkiye’s government-coordinated repatriation program, the migration authority said.

Gulf’s Interest in Africa

Somalia and Kuwait agreed to boost cooperation via a joint committee and yearly consultations.

The agreements also include joint training, knowledge exchange, and personnel programs.

US Secretary of State Rubio:

To achieve peace in Ukraine, we all recognize that there'll have to be some conversation about security guarantees.

Trump on his upcoming meeting with Putin:

I think he is going to make a deal.

Trump:

I think Putin wants to get it done.

Kremlin:

It would be a mistake to jump ahead and predict the results of the Russia-US summit in Alaska.

Trump on Ukraine:

I don't think we can get an immediate ceasefire.

Trump on his upcoming meeting with Putin:

If it is a bad meeting, I will not call anyone.

Kremlin:

No document is expected following the summit in Alaska.

Kremlin:

Currently, the Ukrainian conflict between Russia and the US is being discussed, and Ukraine's opinion may be discussed at later stages.

Kremlin:

Trump demonstrates an unprecedentedly unusual approach to solving the most complex issues, these actions are highly appreciated by Moscow and Putin personally.

Trump on his upcoming meeting with Putin:

It will be a give and take on boundaries and lands.

Trump on his upcoming meeting with Putin:

I would have sanctions if it's not solved.

Trump estimated a 25% chance that the upcoming meeting with Putin in Alaska will end unsuccessfully.

DR Congo: M23 and River Alliance rebels announced they have formed a commission to restore courts and tribunals in territories under their control in the east.

South Africa: Court denies environmental authorisation for TotalEnergies’ planned offshore drilling near continent’s southern tip.