Russian President Vladimir Putin has approved a military budget of over $145 billion for 2025, allocating 32.5% to defense amidst intensifying military actions against Ukraine. Ukraine's President Zelensky articulated the need for NATO membership and security guarantees before engaging in talks with Russia. European officials visited Kyiv to express support for Ukraine, amidst drone strikes in Kherson resulting in civilian casualties. Meanwhile, concerns rise over China's alleged weapon support to Russia, and the U.S. plans to surge military support to Ukraine while reaffirming that nuclear capability is not an option.