The widening gap between statement and reality goes beyond what we’ve come to expect from Russian propaganda. Rather, it suggests a stunted information environment surrounding President Putin and mounting elite struggles across the Russian state.

Accusations that Ukraine is attempting to acquire nuclear weapons from France and the UK are simultaneously absurd and – in light of recent historical precedent – extremely alarming.

The Poseidon is an underwater unmanned vehicle and one of Russia’s ‘unparalleled’ next-generation weapon systems. The state authorities would have us believe that it can defy the laws of physics. No wonder it has never been seen in the field.

The end of the era of global alliances marks the beginning of a new security architecture, one in which effectiveness is ensured by flexibility and security rests on concrete, targeted action between like-minded allies.

Alliances are failing to fulfill their key function of preventing conflicts. Rather, they are devolving into sources of tension as the old rulebook of collective security no longer corresponds to global realities.

Despite the outward optics of negotiation, there’s only one direction that Putin will go: toward a full mobilization.

For the United States and Europe, the disintegration of Russia looks like a catastrophe. For China, it could be a historical opportunity.

Faced with declining materiel and economic firepower, Russia is embellishing battlefield victories to help steer the course of ongoing peace talks.

For Europe, the Trump peace plan is not a chance for a durable détente, but a crucible of new risks.

Messaging surrounding Russia’s latest failed test launch of its RS-28 “Sarmat” suggests that this ‘peerless’ next-generation ICBM is more propaganda tool than strategic gamechanger.