**Key Developments in Ukraine and Global News**
**Russia and Iran Strengthen Ties**
On January 17, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a strategic partnership agreement with Iranian counterpart Masoud Pezeshkian. The deal aims to boost cooperation between the two countries in various areas, including energy, finance, transportation, agriculture, culture, science, technology, and counterterrorism.
The agreement establishes Moscow and Tehran as strategic partners and seeks to increase trade and economic ties between them. It also includes a commitment to cooperate on defense issues and to support each other’s positions at international forums.
**Ukraine Strikes Russian S-400 Radar**
On the same day, Ukraine launched a strike against a Russian S-400 air defense system in occupied Crimea. The attack was reportedly successful, with Ukrainian officials claiming that several personnel were killed or wounded.
The S-400 is a powerful air defense system capable of intercepting a wide range of targets, including aircraft and missiles. Its destruction would be a significant blow to Russia’s military capabilities in the region.
**US Assures Putin on Nuclear Weapons**
Outgoing US President Joe Biden reassured Russian President Vladimir Putin that the United States would not deploy nuclear weapons in Ukraine. The statement was made during an interview with MSNBC, where Biden also criticized Putin’s ambitions and accused him of seeking to re-establish the Warsaw Pact.
The Budapest Memorandum, signed in 1994, guaranteed Ukraine’s security in exchange for its commitment to give up its nuclear arsenal. Despite this agreement, Russia launched a war against Ukraine and has repeatedly threatened to use nuclear force against the country or its allies.
**Australian Volunteer Soldier Status Unclear**
There is no confirmation of the death of Australian volunteer soldier Oscar Jenkins, who was reportedly executed by Russian captors. Prosecutors have stated that there is no evidence to support claims that Jenkins’ body was found.
Jenkins is a prisoner of war and his status is being investigated. The Geneva Conventions require all warring parties to treat POWs with respect and dignity, while executing them is considered a gross violation of international law and a war crime.
**Global Reactions**
The Australian government has summoned the Russian ambassador to demand information about Jenkins’ fate. Australia’s Foreign Ministry also stressed the importance of compliance with international law.
The US and other Western countries have condemned Russia’s actions in Ukraine, including its repeated threats to use nuclear force against the country or its allies.
These developments reflect ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, as well as concerns among Western countries about Moscow’s ambitions.