On August 20, Andriy Kluchok reported several major developments. Russia is preparing for new negotiations with Ukraine, focusing on raising the status of negotiating teams rather than direct leader talks, as announced by Sergey Lavrov. Western press discusses possible compromises, including territorial concessions allegedly demanded by Moscow.
The US and European countries are working on a security guarantee package for Ukraine, with Donald Trump setting a two-week deadline for a plan. UK Chief of Defence Tony Radakin stated at the Pentagon that up to 30 countries may join Ukraine’s security support, though details remain unclear. Both the UK and EU are readying new sanctions against Russia should Putin refuse talks.
Meanwhile, Russia is working with India and China to maintain oil exports despite sanctions. Bloomberg reports that India continues to buy Russian oil at discounted prices, undeterred by potential US measures.
Due to Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refineries, several Russian regions, including Primorye, Crimea, and Zabaykalsky Krai, now face fuel shortages and have introduced ration cards at gas stations. Russian media links this to recent infrastructure attacks.
In Poland, a Russian “Shahed”-type drone crashed near Lublin, shattering windows in three homes. The incident has been confirmed by local diplomats, and Poland has protested to Russia, emphasizing border security for NATO.
Ukraine’s parliament approved amendments to the 2025 budget, reallocating 40 billion UAH for non-military needs: the reserve fund, healthcare, school meals, veteran support, and housing for internally displaced persons. Expenses were covered by cutting other spending and funds from Kyiv’s budget.
Reports about Valerii Zaluzhnyi supposedly preparing for a presidential campaign were officially denied, with representatives emphasizing he is not running at this time.
The news also mentioned US border security, including Donald Trump’s directive to paint the Mexico border wall black to deter illegal crossings and the introduction of new surveillance technologies.
