Ukraine and Russia Strengthen Strategic Alliances with Key Partners

Ukraine deepens ties with the UK in a 100-year defense pact, while Russia formalizes a 20-year partnership with Iran.

Ukraine and the UK signed a 100-year partnership agreement focusing on defense, energy, trade, and scientific collaboration, with $6.6 billion pledged in military aid for 2025.
The agreement includes increased training for Ukrainian pilots on Western fighter jets and enhanced naval cooperation in the Black Sea region.
Russia and Iran are set to formalize a 20-year strategic partnership, aiming to expand military collaboration, though it does not include a mutual defense clause.
Ukraine has significantly ramped up domestic weapons production, including artillery shells and drones, achieving a sixfold increase since 2023.
The situation on the southeastern front remains tense, with reports of Russian advances near Welyka Nowosilka, though these claims are not independently verified.