Putin hosts ASEAN leaders in Kazan as G7 pledges unwavering support for Ukraine
Russian President Vladimir Putin is hosting ASEAN leaders in Kazan on Wednesday, while the G7 summit in France concludes with a pledge to strengthen sanctions against Russia and bolster Ukraine's air defense.
ASEAN-Russia Summit in Kazan
On Wednesday, leaders from 11 Southeast Asian countries arrived in Kazan, Russia, for the ASEAN-Russia summit. Participants include Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore. The meeting aims to discuss strategic partnerships and new areas of political, economic, and humanitarian cooperation.
In a greeting message, Putin noted that the event marks the 35th anniversary of ASEAN-Russia relations. He highlighted new tasks, including the rapid adoption of AI-based digital solutions and the development of resilient digital platforms. He also pointed to potential in energy and food security, technology exchange, peaceful use of nuclear energy, and transport and logistics.
G7 Summit and Support for Ukraine
Simultaneously, the G7 summit in France addressed international peace, security, migration, and technology. In a joint statement, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, and the US pledged unwavering support for Ukraine as it continues to repel Russia's invasion launched in February 2022.
The G7 leaders committed to strengthening sanctions, especially on oil and gas sectors, and considered this the right moment for additional measures. They referenced US President Donald Trump's deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, set to be signed on Friday in Switzerland.
Zelenskyy’s Requests
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with G7 counterparts, renewing appeals for more air defense missiles, a winter support package, and increased pressure on Russia. On social media, he announced agreement on additional strengthening of Ukraine's air defense and new measures against Moscow.
