Russia’s Economic Attrition 2026: How Long Can the Kremlin Actually Afford This War?

Russia economy 2026 gold reserves sanctions attrition war cost

Russia sold 22 tons of gold, holds 21% interest rates, and its sovereign wealth fund nears depletion. How long can the Kremlin actually afford this war?

Russia–Ukraine Peace Talks 2026: What the Istanbul Meeting Really Changes

Russia Ukraine Istanbul peace talks May 2026 diplomatic negotiations

First Russia–Ukraine direct talks since 2022 took place in Istanbul on May 10. No ceasefire — but a classified preconditions document changes the diplomatic map.