Black Sea Security: Romania destroyed an explosive-laden marine drone near the Neptun Deep gas project after scrambling F-16s, with officials pointing to Russia and warning of risks to critical infrastructure. UN & Diplomacy: Russia’s UN envoy said more candidates could emerge for the next UN secretary-general if current frontrunners fail to secure support. Ukraine War Impact on Russia: Zelensky said Ukraine intercepted about 90% of Russia’s cruise missiles in a major Kyiv attack, but ballistic missiles remain the hardest challenge; strikes also hit ports and critical infrastructure, feeding wider food-supply fears. Sanctions & Finance: Ukraine moved to sell Sense Bank with proceeds earmarked for defense, while also expanding sanctions on Russia’s military-industrial complex and even Russia’s “Masha and the Bear” creators. Trade Transparency: Latvia began publishing a monthly list of companies trading with Russia and Belarus, aiming to make it harder for “aggressor” states to replenish budgets. Energy & Shipping: Global grain shipments fell 8% year-on-year as Black Sea attacks intensified, with port disruptions keeping exports under pressure. Iran Pressure: US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urged countries to cut ties with Iran as Washington escalates economic pressure, putting Russia and China in the spotlight. Business in the Region: Freedom Holding’s Timur Turlov expanded into Kazakhstan media assets, while a Kanye West concert in Almaty reportedly generated major tourism spending.