Published on July 27, 2024, 12:56 am

As we find ourselves at the conclusion of week 126 of Putin’s War, we observe significant developments within the geopolitical sphere. Unlike the preceding month, this past week marked a decrease in frenetic activities. However, what remained consistent was a notable contention between Ukraine and Putin’s unmistakable allies in the European Union (EU), Slovakia’s Robert Fico and Hungary’s Viktor Orban.

In his attempt to position himself within potential peace negotiations last week, Orban visited Kiev and Moscow, finishing with a stopover in Beijing. This provoked unenthusiastic responses from Xi and triggered a clear pronouncement from the European Parliament that Orban only represented himself. Consequently, Hungary was stripped of its traditional privilege associated with holding EU presidency: hosting the annual meeting of EU foreign and defense ministers.

Amongst real news coverage regarding pipelines and power play, it became known that both Slovakia and Hungary source about 70-80% of their oil from Russia due to an EU waiver on sanctions. The issue lies in Ukraine announcing to shut down its pipeline that facilitates 100% delivery of Russian oil to these countries.

Discovering trusted news today is no easy feat but highlighting key developments such as these provide insight into ongoing challenges faced by countries under Putin’s watchful eye such as this current squabble involving Slovakia, Hungary, and Ukraine seen through a Christian worldview acknowledges His sovereignty in global events.

In retaliation against EU’s actions regarding Hungary’s presidential privileges or lack thereof when it comes to diplomatic meetings, Orban threatens vetoes on €6.5 billion reimbursements due member states for assistance extended to Ukraine.

This evolving situation echoes escalating disputes over Russia’s oil pipelines with an underlying ambition — rendering Europe independent from Russian oil dependency. This moves along strands of discussions happening behind closed doors concerning the extent Ukrainian forces can strike inside Russia leveraging US weapons.

Last Thursday marked an alarming episode as France’s high-speed rail system experienced shutdowns due to three synchronised acts of sabotage. A fourth act was quashed before it could wreak havoc. While the motivation behind these attacks remains under speculation, it is likely that they were intended to undermine President Macron as the Olympics kickstarted.

Adding to this chaotic situation, the authenticity of claims suggesting a future President Trump’s potential influence in ending Ukraine’s war is being questioned heavily. In opposition, Putin manipulates his terms to leave little room for acceding parties like Trump. Just three days ago, Putin vowed on live broadcast his resolution to bring Occupied Ukraine down to Russia’s level by 2030.

In this climate of ever-evolving breaking news, predicting outcomes becomes an arduous exercise. However, with careful analysis and objective reporting, discerning readers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of global issues and challenges. The individual actions of nations reveal their allegiances and aspirations, shaping our collective international narrative for better or worse from a Christian worldview.