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Ukraine Claims Russian Summer Offensive Falls Short of Strategic Goals

A firefighter works at the site of an apartment building hit during a Russian drone and missile strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine in this handout picture released August 30, 2025. Ukraine’s armed forces have declared that Russia’s much-publicized summer offensive failed to secure full control of any major Ukrainian city, despite Moscow’s claims of significant territorial gains. Russian Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov stated that since March, Russian forces had captured over 3,500 square kilometers of territory and taken control of 149 settlements. However, Ukraine’s General Staff dismissed these figures as “grossly exaggerated,” asserting that no major urban centers were fully occupied by Russian troops. Military analysts note that Russia’s campaign, aimed at seizing the Donbas region and forcing Ukraine into concessions, devolved into a slow, attritional struggle rather than the decisive breakthrough Moscow had anticipated. While Russian ...
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Rubio’s Asia Debut Overshadowed by Trump’s Tariff Offensive

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio made his first official visit to Asia this week, aiming to reaffirm Washington’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific region. However, the trip has been clouded by President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariff announcements targeting key regional allies.

Rubio joined foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Malaysia, emphasizing that the Indo-Pacific remains a “focal point of U.S. foreign policy.” His remarks came amid growing concern over Trump’s decision to impose tariffs ranging from 25% to 40% on seven ASEAN members, including Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand.

The timing of the tariffs has sparked unease among U.S. partners, many of whom are questioning the administration’s diplomatic intentions. Rubio, who also serves as national security adviser, sought to reassure leaders that the U.S. remains a reliable partner despite the economic tensions.

Rubio’s itinerary included bilateral talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and a scheduled meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. Discussions reportedly touched on trade, regional security, and the ongoing war in Ukraine.

While Rubio’s visit signals a renewed U.S. focus on Asia, analysts say the administration’s tariff strategy may undermine efforts to strengthen ties in the region. Only Vietnam has secured a deal to reduce its levy, while other nations brace for economic fallout.


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