Oct 31, 2026, 07:30 AM UTC

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Russia and Ukraine agreed to an energy truce, calling on both nations to stop targeting power and fuel infrastructure. Trump linked rising global diesel prices to the conflict and urged adherence to the deal.

However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky challenged the claims, stating Kyiv will continue striking Russian oil refineries. Zelensky clarified that Ukraine had temporarily paused refinery attacks for three days at Washington's request, but resumed strikes after Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy targets persisted. He stressed that Ukraine would only abide by a truce if Moscow strictly complies with all terms.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin rejected proposals for a broader temporary ceasefire as the European Union enacted further sanctions against Moscow.

Sources: HRT Vijesti, Index, Klix

Russian forces launched renewed drone strikes targeting Kyiv following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's address to the UN General Assembly. The overnight attack injured at least one civilian as Moscow confirmed an intensified military campaign aimed at destroying Ukraine's energy grid ahead of winter. In response to long-range Ukrainian strikes on Russian refineries, Moscow has experienced domestic fuel shortages, prompting petrol imports.

Meanwhile, European security concerns escalated after German authorities identified two suspects linked to Moscow regarding explosive drones found near critical infrastructure in Leipzig. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen declared that the bloc "will not tolerate attacks on EU soil" and indicated readiness to respond.

Sources: Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica.

Tensions across Northern Europe continue to mount as Russian officials direct harsh rhetoric toward Norway following recent NATO military maneuvers and the detention of a Russian vessel. Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Norway of "state terrorism," prompting Norwegian leadership to urge public vigilance while maintaining calm.

Simultaneously, Ukrainian drone strikes targeted a major oil refinery near Moscow, which Ukrainian sources report has disabled over 50 percent of the facility's refining capacity.

Nordic security analysts note that while Moscow retains the military capacity to prolong the war in Ukraine, European strategic objectives remain anchored to an eventual Russian defeat. Analysts emphasize that despite diminishing strategic choices, Kremlin leadership is demonstrating an increasing willingness to accept operational risks.

Sources: Aftenposten, Berlingske, Dagens Næringsliv, TV 2 Nyheter, VG

Slovakia's government faces scrutiny following details of Defense Minister Robert Kaliňák’s consulting payments from Czech defense manufacturer CSG prior to awarding state contracts. Reports revealed Kaliňák’s firm received funds for promoting Tatra trucks in the United Arab Emirates.

Internal coalition strains also intensified following the dismissal of Environment Minister Tomáš Taraba, orchestrated by Slovak National Party leader Andrej Danko alongside opposition lawmakers. Meanwhile, public integrity concerns grew after the spouse of a police investigator who cleared Interior Minister Matúš Šutaj Eštok of complaints secured a state energy board position without a tender.

Additionally, Slovakia became the first EU member since 2022 to restore military attaché ties with Russia, raising opposition warnings over security risks. Slovak officials deny any impropriety.

Sources: Český rozhlas Plus, Denník N, Ekonomický deník, iROZHLAS, Seznam Zprávy