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Through a major step to bolster its long-term security, Ukraine has signed a preliminary agreement to acquire up to 100 Rafale warplanes, unmanned aerial vehicles, air defense equipment and additional key gear from France. The agreement was signed by Ukraine's leader Zelenskyy and French president Macron during a joint press briefing at the Elysée residence. The Ukrainian leader referred to the pact as “a historic agreement.”

Against Their Will Deported Minors: Relatives Cut Off Contact

Several families of Ukrainian children who were taken against their will to the Russian Federation have sounded the alarm about their well-being, reporting that every line of communication has been severed. During a uncommon news conference in the French capital, a legal guardian, who cares for two children removed after Moscow's widespread invasion of Ukraine in 2022, stated that officials in Russia are ignoring every appeal to help with the children's return.

Drone Attack Hits Turkish-Flagged Tanker in Odesa

An unmanned aerial vehicle struck a Turkish-flagged tanker and caused a fire in the southern part of the Odesa region, authorities reported. The incident occurred just a day after Zelenskyy signed a deal to bring in US LNG through the region. The vessel was struck while offloading LPG at Izmail port, according to Turkey's Directorate for Maritime Affairs. All 16 crew members on board were safely removed and not a single person was hurt.

Romania's Officials Evacuate Villages Following Drone Incident

Romania's officials said they had evacuated two communities near the Ukrainian border following the drone attack on the tanker. After invading Ukraine in 2022, Russian forces has consistently attacked Ukraine's ports in the Danube area, triggering alerts in neighbouring Romania.

US Leader Donald Trump Open to Approve Russia Penalties Bill

US president Trump is willing to sign legislation to impose sanctions on the Russian Federation, provided that he keeps final authority authority over any such measures, a senior U.S. administration representative stated. Trump informed journalists recently that it was “OK with me” that Republicans were working on legislation to impose sanctions on countries engaging commercially with Russia over its failure to reach a ceasefire agreement with Ukraine.

Poland's Leader Describes Rail Explosion an “Never-Before-Seen Act of Disruption”

The Polish leader, Tusk, has labeled an explosion along a part of railway line used for shipments to the country as an “unprecedented instance of disruption” that could have led to catastrophe. This statement coincided with a announcement from public prosecutors saying that an inquiry had been initiated “concerning actions of sabotage of a terror-related nature […] carried out on behalf of a external intelligence agency against the Republic of the country.”

Chinese Premier Shows Readiness to Expand Partnership with Russia

China is prepared to strengthen collaboration with the Russian Federation in the energy sector, farming and additional financial ventures, Premier Li said during a discussion with Russia's leader Mishustin in Moscow. Li told his counterpart that China is open to more agricultural and food products from Russia, as per the official news agency. The Chinese side also hopes that Moscow will facilitate for companies from China to invest and do business in Russia, the source cited. Mishustin told his counterpart that the partnership between the both nations has consistently demonstrated its strength to external challenges.