
European Parliament backs €115 million Agile defence technology fund
The European Parliament approved a €115 million Agile programme to support defence technology SMEs, start-ups and scale-ups.

The European Parliament approved a €115 million Agile programme to support defence technology SMEs, start-ups and scale-ups.

Russian overnight strikes on Kyiv followed daytime attacks that killed two people and hit scientific and medical facilities.

Canada is in talks to join the EU’s €90 billion Ukraine loan, as Ottawa seeks deeper ties with Europe and less reliance on the United States.

Kaja Kallas cancelled an EU defence expert group after German and Italian objections, exposing tensions over defence governance and NATO planning.

Russia has created a shadow air fleet comprising military and private aircraft to supply its forces in Africa’s Sahel, bypassing Western sanctions through a complex logistics network.

The US introduces tariffs up to 100% on drones and components, targeting national security risks and aiming to boost domestic production amid concerns over Chinese dominance in the drone industry.

Germany faces a surge in drone incursions near Bundeswehr bases, prompting new counter-drone technology initiatives amid evolving hybrid security threats.

Germany warns of increasing hybrid warfare threats and enhances anti-drone capabilities with a new national research center to protect critical infrastructure.

Former President Trump criticizes Biden's administration for depleting U.S. ammunition stockpiles through aid to Ukraine, emphasizing the need to prioritize American defense resources.

The UK will transfer intellectual property rights for the Stone Cloak electronic warfare system to Ukraine, enabling domestic production and strengthening Kyiv’s defense capabilities.

CSU leader Alexander Hoffmann calls for a Germany-Ukraine intergovernmental pact to acquire Ukraine's advanced drone technologies, enhancing German defense capabilities.

The Russian State Duma has amended tax laws to refine the fuel dampener system and import compensation, aiming to stabilize domestic fuel prices and supplies amid sector disruptions.

CIA director reports that AI-powered drone warfare has reduced Russian conscript survival time in Ukraine to 20-30 minutes, drastically shifting military casualty ratios.

Uzbekistan's strategic reforms and digital innovations in water management significantly reduced water stress, positioning it as a model for sustainable resource governance in water-scarce regions.

Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs calls for NATO to prepare for possible escalation with Russia, stressing the need for stronger military capabilities beyond increased defense budgets.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani cancels US visit after Donald Trump’s offensive remarks about PM Giorgia Meloni, highlighting diplomatic tensions between Italy and the US.

SpaceX completed a historic $75 billion IPO with a $1.77 trillion valuation, making Elon Musk the first paper trillionaire and setting ambitious expansion plans in space exploration.

Ukraine apologized to Greece for a maritime drone incident near Lefkada, attributing it to ongoing Russian aggression and underscoring commitments to maritime law and bilateral ties.

Rosneft advisor Andrey Bezrukov warns Russia may remain in a state of war for decades, urging economic and defense restructuring amid rising security risks and evolving threats.

North Korea conducts tactical ballistic, artillery, and AI-guided cruise missile tests as part of a five-year defense modernization plan, signaling enhanced military capabilities.

NATO intelligence reveals Russia’s secret 'Skif' project deploying nuclear-capable missiles on the seabed, signaling a strategic shift in underwater nuclear deterrence.

SpaceX files for a $75 billion IPO, potentially the largest ever, maintaining Elon Musk’s leadership while focusing on innovation and long-term growth.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer plans an £18 billion defense budget increase amid political crisis, reflecting a strategic shift in national security priorities.

Ukraine and Germany advance joint air defense and drone manufacturing efforts to counter escalating Russian attacks, enhancing military cooperation and technology integration.

Uzbek banks saw a 30.9% deposit growth in Q1 2026, with Octobank leading a surge in corporate deposits, while Milliy Bank and Agrobank maintained top rankings.

Octobank launches E9PAY-enabled money transfers to South Korean HUMO cards, enhancing cross-border payment options and strengthening international financial services.

A drone crashed into a luxury residential building on Mosfilmovskaya Street, causing facade and window damage but no injuries, while Moscow air defenses intercepted two more drones.

Uzbekistan accelerates Asakabank privatization, transferring assets and securing state capital to enhance the bank's market viability and strategic competitiveness.

Tencent and key investors acquire a major stake in Kaspi.kz, advancing the fintech firm’s strategic growth and regional expansion with enhanced capital and expertise.