Medvedev suggests drones in Europe are a “provocation by Banderites”
Dmitry Medvedev, the Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council, said that the appearance of drones over European countries could be a “provocation by Banderites.” He noted that these devices have been spotted near airports, over cities and near military facilities, suggesting several possible origins, ranging from the actions of Ukrainian nationalists to pranks or tests of air defense systems by European special services. Medvedev said that a Ukrainian provocation was the most likely scenario, stating that there are many deserters among them who are ready to act outside of Ukraine (TASS).
Intended effect: The statement reinforces anti-European and anti-Ukrainian rhetoric, creating the false impression that Ukraine, not Russia is the source of instability and threats in Europe. It is also intended to portray Ukraine as a source of chaos and justify Russia’s own security measures.
Novosti Mail: Armenia-Azerbaijan peace agreement does not concern Russian border guards
Armenian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ani Badalyan said that the initialed peace agreement between Yerevan and Baku does not address the issue of the Russian military presence in Armenia, Novosti Mail reports. She stressed that the status of Russian border guards is determined by separate bilateral agreements between Armenia and Russia. Badalyan recalled that Russian troops guard sections of Armenia’s borders with Turkey and Iran based on a 1992 treaty, and that these agreements remain in force regardless of the new peace agreement with Azerbaijan (Novosti Mail).
Intended effect: The material aims to demonstrate that Armenia continues to engage in military and political cooperation with Russia, even after signing a peace document with Azerbaijan. This gives the impression that Moscow’s influence in the region is intact and that its alliance with Armenia remains stable, even though relations are cooling.
RIA Novosti: Turkey will not be able to abandon Russian energy resources in the short term
RIA Novosti reports citing Turkish media that Turkey will not be able to abandon Russian energy resources in the short term. According to RIA Novosti, Turkish economic publication columnist Ilker Turan said that a sharp halt in oil and gas purchases would lead to increased costs and serious economic consequences. In 2024, Russian oil accounted for 66% of Turkish imports, and Russian gas accounted for 41%. Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar noted that the country does not intend to abandon Russian gas, despite external pressure, RIA Novosti adds.
Intended effect: The article emphasizes Turkey’s economic reliance on Russia and justifies continued cooperation in the energy sector. It gives the audience the impression that Russia’s influence in the region is stable and strategically significant.
