**Russia’s Increased Presence in Baltic Sea Provokes Tensions**
Germany’s Defense Minister, Boris Pistorius, has warned that Russia is significantly increasing its naval and civilian presence in the Baltic Sea. This comes after a Russian warship fired a warning shot at a German military helicopter patrolling the area.
Pistorius said Russia’s actions demonstrate the strategic importance of the Baltic Sea for Moscow. He also noted that China has been periodically present in the region, which he believes is aimed at avoiding sanctions.
**Incidents and Investigations**
There have been several incidents in the Baltic Sea recently, including a Russian warship firing a warning shot at a German military helicopter. Swedish authorities are investigating damage to two communication cables, with suspicions pointing towards a Chinese cargo ship.
Pistorius compared Russia’s behavior to tactics used during the Cold War, saying it is “provocative” and “testing NATO’s response.” He also criticized Russia for flying fighter jets over Baltic states without identification markings.
**Global Tensions**
The increased activity in the Baltic Sea underscores the region’s critical role in security and geopolitics. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to escalate, with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha warning against any agreements that could legitimize Russian aggression.
The world is facing a “third nuclear age,” according to Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, head of the UK’s armed forces. Meduza estimates that Russia is losing 600-750 soldiers per day on the battlefield, and that new contracts are being signed at a rate of 500-600 per day just to cover these losses.
**Other Developments**
The Ukrainian Air Force intercepted 30 out of 44 Russian drones launched overnight, with Russia also firing two ballistic missiles. North Korean soldiers have been stationed in Russia’s Kursk Oblast as a “second echelon” not involved in direct combat.
Hungary has requested the US to provide a sanctions waiver for Russian natural gas imports through Gazprombank. The Romanian authorities have declassified evidence of a social media campaign backed by a state actor to boost a pro-Russian presidential candidate.
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