Legislation imposing severe sanctions on Russia faces uncertain prospects in Congress, with key Democrats in the House growing resistant amid concerns it could expand former President Trump's authority, according to Punchbowl News.

China amends National Defense Mobilization Law for the first time in 16 years, with new provisions taking effect October 1. The updated legislation delineates authority between military and civilian entities, outlining rules for resource and personnel mobilization and integrating with the emergency response framework. The reforms aim to facilitate rapid transition from peacetime to wartime, enabling economic and social resources to be effectively mobilized for defense purposes.

The total value locked in DeFi experienced a notable acceleration in growth during August, according to Cryptorank data.

Russia's AI regulation law came into force on September 1, establishing the powers of state authorities in the sector. Developers of sovereign or national AI models are eligible for government support and involvement in specialized organizations, and are permitted to participate in international cooperation.

Clients of T-Business have been conducting international transactions using cryptocurrency for the past 18 months, with monthly volumes reaching billions of rubles, primarily in USDT. Vladislav Bokun, head of products for foreign economic activity at T-Bank, told RBC Radio that the market is poised for growth following the implementation of comprehensive regulations. He noted that prior legal uncertainties had limited activity, but these challenges have now been addressed.

The downward trajectory of annual inflation observed in the first half of 2026 has come to a halt, with an anticipated acceleration in consumer price increases during the second half. Indicators of stable price growth are rising, reflecting a broader inflationary environment. The depreciation of the ruble has so far impacted only select goods, but this effect could extend. Data from July indicates a substantial increase in money supply growth, raising concerns about inflationary pressures and diminishing monetary policy flexibility. According to Central Bank analysts, meeting the inflation target in 2027 will require precise policy measures. release

Germany denounces the agreement concerning the operations of the Russian House in Berlin. The German government also plans to close the Russian Consulate General in Bonn by September 18.

Germany is advocating for expanded EU sanctions against Russia, according to the Foreign Minister. Interior Minister Alexander Dobirindt accused Russia of the August 4 attack on Leipzig Airport. TASS reports that the German Foreign Ministry summoned the Russian ambassador over the Leipzig drone incident. Germany will close the Russian Consulate in Bonn by September 18 and implement stricter entry controls for Russian citizens.

Dmitry Peskov said there are no details yet on potential mediation efforts by Steven Witkoff and Jared Kushner in Ukraine, according to TASS.

Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has pledged to respond to Germany's anti-Russian measures.

Explosions reported in Iran's southern ports of Chabahar and Bandar Abbas, Iranian media say.

Oil prices increased by 4%.

The US Air Force is conducting strikes on Iranian targets in the Strait of Hormuz area, according to Axios. Multiple explosions have been reported on Qeshm Island and in the surrounding region, Press TV states.

Chevron plans to expand its operations in Venezuela. U.S. Energy Secretary Wright is scheduled to arrive in Venezuela tomorrow to sign an oil accord.

Sber has acquired two business centers, Summit Towers, in New Delhi, according to Alexander Vedyakhin.

A group of 21 financial institutions, including Bank of America, Citi, Goldman Sachs, and UBS, is forming a company to issue stablecoins aimed at facilitating payments and digital asset transactions. Read more.

The Pentagon plans to conduct periodic strikes along Iran's coastline in the Strait of Hormuz, according to U.S. Central Command. The strategy aims to prevent Tehran from reasserting military positions in the region, Axios reported.

The U.S. Embassy in Israel has issued a warning to American citizens across the Middle East regarding a potential escalation, according to Sky News Arabia.

Dmytro Peskov stated that Germany is furthering its trajectory toward escalation.

Putin, Trump, and Xi Jinping may attend a trilateral summit at the upcoming APEC meeting, according to Zarubin. During a recent meeting between Russian and Chinese leaders, discussions covered the possibility of a trilateral summit and bilateral talks with other leaders, Ushakov informed Zarubin.