Despite current tensions, historical U.S.-Soviet cooperation during the Cold War on polio and smallpox eradication offers hope for renewed 'vaccine diplomacy'. Recent high-level U.S.-Russia dialogues suggest potential, but past conflicts and recent events like the Ukraine crisis and election interference complicate relationships.

Jasenovac, a WWII death camp in the then Independent State of Croatia, remains a contentious issue in Serbia-Croatia relations. Despite being liberated 76 years ago, debates on the victim count continue, with estimates ranging from 80,000 to 100,000.

The article discusses Vladimir Putin's history of deceit and manipulation in Russian politics, highlighting his strategic use of lies to suppress opposition and maintain power, evidenced by cases like the apartment bombings in 1999 and the assassination of Boris Nemtsov in 2015. Theconversation.com

The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova for deporting Ukrainian children. This marks Putin as the third sitting leader indicted by the ICC. The interview discusses ICC's origins, challenges, and its authority, highlighting its non-UN, treaty-based nature.

North Macedonia's elections are pivotal for EU accession and reflect great power dynamics in the Western Balkans amid COVID-19. Political divisions and online disinformation campaigns heighten the stakes, with potential shifts in governance and regional influence. Canadian Macedonian Historical Society

The article examines the role of Russian private military security contractors (PMSCs), particularly the Wagner Group, in proxy wars in the Middle East and beyond. It explores their operations, legal status, and impact on Russia's international strategy and relations. Newamerica.org

Two Orthodox churches in Ukraine reflect historic tensions with Russia. The Ukrainian Orthodox Church - Moscow Patriarchate, under Russian spiritual authority, contrasts with the independent Orthodox Church of Ukraine, which emphasizes Ukrainian spiritual autonomy and separation from Russian control. Theconversation.com

The podcast explores gentrification, war recovery, and foreign investment in Beirut and Belgrade waterfronts. Adriana and Milo discuss the regions' development and political issues, reflecting on changes since 2017. Lefteast.org

The article discusses Russia's historical view of Ukraine as part of its empire, influencing Putin's refusal to acknowledge Ukrainian sovereignty. The term 'Little Russia' and policies suppressed Ukrainian identity, supporting Russia's contemporary claims and actions towards Ukraine. Theconversation.com

The Russian Orthodox Church published a 'black list of false clerics' to warn believers about fraudulent figures. Despite intentions, links provided to their online content may inadvertently increase their popularity and challenge the Church's authority. Publicorthodoxy.org

Russian President Putin recognized two breakaway Ukrainian regions, escalating tensions. The U.S. and EU responded with sanctions. Historical grievances and strategic interests, including energy dependency and cyber warfare, underscore the conflict's complexity and depth. Theconversation.com

Lada Roslycky, an American Canadian of Ukrainian descent, remains in Kyiv despite potential Russian invasion, supporting Ukraine's drive for democracy and independence. Over $5.4 billion U.S. aid has been sent to Ukraine as tensions escalate with Russia. Cronkitenews.azpbs.org