Western allies

Ukraine's Western allies meet in Paris to reaffirm support for Kyiv and enhance air and missile defense cooperation. At least 25 leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, will attend the 'Coalition of the Willing' meeting aimed at increasing pressure on Russia.

Russia and the Alliance of Sahel States have agreed to expand military cooperation in response to rising jihadist violence in the region. The partnership involves Moscow providing training, equipment, and paramilitary assistance, marking a shift away from Western allies.

The U.S. ranks 117th in a global accountability index, lagging behind Western allies like Canada and Germany. The article attributes a transatlantic crisis to declining U.S. accountability and a 2025 National Security Strategy that frames alliances as transactional, prioritizing 'America First' over collective global leadership.

A potential deal between the U.S. and Iran to end sanctions could strengthen Iran's Revolutionary Guards, a group considered a terrorist organization by the U.S. and its allies. The Guards have built a commercial empire in sectors like oil, construction, and shipping.

Iran replenished its missile stockpiles during a US-led ceasefire, incorporating Russian weapons and reconstituting much of its arsenal. Intelligence assessments indicate Tehran now has about three-quarters of its pre-war munitions and can further expand its capacity.

Ukraine has developed a tech-driven defense industry, using long-range drones and sabotage operations to disrupt Russia's military and energy sectors. Despite wavering Western support, Kyiv is preparing for a prolonged conflict and asserting strategic independence.