Armenia votes as Pashinyan seeks new term under Russian pressure
Why it matters: The result will shape Armenia’s EU drive, its economic ties with Russia and a divisive peace track with Azerbaijan.
Bloomberg, BBC News (World)
#Russia
11 stories on this subject
House GOP joins Democrats to pass Ukraine bill in rebuke to Trump
What's new: Republicans also moved to block or cut several Trump-backed priorities, from a White House ballroom request to a domestic spying measure.
Bloomberg, The Hill +1
Zelensky seeks Putin meeting to halt war, with ceasefire first
What's new: Trump backed direct talks, and the Kremlin said Zelensky could come to Moscow if he wants negotiations.
Bloomberg, BBC News (World) +5
Russia downs 50 Ukrainian drones near St. Petersburg before forum
What's new: Flight limits at Pulkovo disrupted more than 30 flights hours before the St. Petersburg economic forum opened.
The New York Times, Bloomberg +3
House passes Ukraine aid, Russia sanctions bill in 226-195 vote
What's next: The measure heads to the Senate and faces a likely veto fight after 18 Republicans joined Democrats to force it through.
Italy pushes 40-nation European defense bloc beyond EU and NATO
Why it matters: The proposal reflects growing alarm over Russia and doubts about whether the US will keep guaranteeing Europe’s security.
The New York Times, The Straits Times
Xi to make June 8-9 North Korea trip, first in nearly 7 years
Why it matters: The visit signals Beijing is moving to pull Pyongyang closer as Kim deepens military ties with Moscow.
The New York Times, Bloomberg +4
House passes 226-195 bill for Ukraine aid and Russia sanctions
What's next: The measure faces a tougher path in the Senate and would likely draw a veto if it reached the White House.
The New York Times, The Hill +1
Sea drone explodes at Romania's Constanta port; no injuries reported
Why it matters: The blast shut down part of a key Black Sea hub used for Ukrainian grain and fuel shipments and widened NATO security fears.
Germany, France and Britain weigh Ukraine-Russia talks push
What's next: European officials see any talks as months away and insist Kyiv must approve the format and timing.
5 Azerbaijani crew members killed in Sea of Azov vessel strikes
What's new: Ukraine said its drones hit five ships near Mariupol and Berdyansk that it accused of moving grain, fuel and military cargo.
Bloomberg, The Straits Times