Europe Russia Economic crisis in Russia is reportedly eroding Putin’s immense popularity, but he would still be well above 60%; official and independent polls agree on the decline of approval ratings since the start of economy's contraction, from 2025 onwards
Europe Russia An undersea rail tunnel connecting Russia to Alaska, USA through the Bering Strait was pitched by a Kremlin envoy to Washington, promoting trade, resource exploration and symbolic unity; the initiative has been welcomed by mixed reactions
Europe Russia Ukrainian drone strikes on key Russian oil export terminals and refineries disrupted global energy flows, caused billions in losses, brought critical environmental damage to Black Sea holiday spots and air pollution as far as St. Petersburg and Tuapse
Europe Russia Russia exchanged prisoners with Ukraine, freeing 205 each; the announcement came from the Defense Ministry who also thanked the United Arab Emirates for their mediation and the news was reported by media
Europe Russia A drone attack hit a building in the air traffic control center in Rostov-on-Don, which manages air traffic in southern Russia; flights to and from over 10 airports in the area have been suspended up to 11 May, international links are also disrupted