Future of US–Ukraine Minerals Deal Clouded by Russian Gains

Russia’s capture of Shevchenko—site of a key lithium deposit—is alarming investors over the future of a US–Ukraine critical minerals deal. With further Russian advances, Donald Trump may face a tough choice: ramp up pressure on Moscow or risk the deal’s collapse.

Hungary’s Significant Role in the Balkans

‘In short, for the vast majority of the people in the region, Hungary would be the most acceptable and desirable form of Europe and Europeanization. Of course, the close connection with Trump, whom many truly appreciate and respect in the Balkans, also significantly contributes to this.’

Orbán Declares ‘Battle Won’ as NATO Shifts Focus from Ukraine

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán described this year’s NATO summit as a ‘battle won’ for member states advocating the strengthening of the Alliance over prioritizing Ukraine. He also emphasized that the European Union must ease its fiscal rules to enable member states to meet the new 5 per cent defence commitment by 2035.

Trump’s Triumphant Return — Prospects Ahead of The Hague NATO Summit

US President Donald Trump will return to the NATO table in just a few hours for the first time since 2019. The summit in The Hague is set to be far from routine for several reasons: member states are expected to approve a 5 per cent defence spending target by 2035. It will also mark the first summit since 2022 not centred on Ukraine, raising questions about Kyiv’s increasingly uncertain future.

The US at the Head of the G7 or Against the G7?

‘Overall, these meetings influence policies that can lead to more coherent and effective global economic cooperation. However, in light of the tensions listed above, it is unlikely that this was one of those meetings where significant policies were adopted.’