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CWA # 1768
Conflict Weekly
Thailand–Cambodia Diplomatic and Military Standoff & Third Round of Russia–Ukraine Negotiations in Turkey
Conflict Weekly # 291, 24 July 2025, Vol 6, No. 30

  IPRI Team
26 July 2025

Conflict Weekly #291, 24 July 2025, Vol.6, No.30
An initiative by NIAS-IPRI

Brighty Ann Sarah, Kejia M and Padmashree Anandhan

Thailand-Cambodia Border Confrontation: A military escalation and diplomatic fallout
Brighty Ann Sarah & Kejia M
 
In the news
On 25 July, the second day of military confrontation between Thailand and Cambodia saw heavy artillery exchanges. While Cambodia agreed to Malaysia’s ceasefire proposal, Thailand rejected third-party mediation and stated that it preferred bilateral negotiations. 

On 24 June, a Thai F-16 fighter jet bombed Cambodian military targets in response to armed clashes that erupted near the Ta Muen Thom temple in Thailand’s Surin province, which involved BM-21 rockets and reconnaissance drones. Cambodia condemned this as “reckless and brutal military aggression.” 

On 23 June, Thai-Cambodian border disputes escalated in a disputed area of Ubon Ratchathani province, as a landmine explosion injured five Thai soldiers.  The Thai government expelled the Cambodian ambassador, Hun Saroem, and downgraded diplomatic relations to the lowest level.

Issues at large
First, a brief background to the recent Thailand-Cambodia tensions. The root of the recent tensions between the two countries can be traced back to a century-old border conflict over an 817 km border. A 1907 map from French colonial rule demarcated the Thailand-Cambodia border, which Cambodia uses to claim culturally significant sites along the border, like the Preah Vihear Temple and Ta Muen Thom. Tensions heightened after the 1962 International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling awarded Preah Vihear to Cambodia, and in 2008, UNESCO listed the Preah Vihar as a World Heritage Site, sparking intermittent tensions since. In May 2025, the death of a Cambodian soldier along the disputed border triggered a new wave of escalation with Cambodia taking up the case to the ICJ, trade restrictions, border controls and other tit-for-tat measures. On 23 July, a landmine explosion near the Ta Muen Thom temple maimed a Thai soldier, sparking the latest round of escalations.

Second, a sudden decline in diplomatic relations between Thailand and Cambodia and the rapid military escalation. Both sides continue to trade blame and downgrade diplomatic relations. Thailand recalled its ambassador from Phnom Penh and expelled Cambodia’s ambassador from Bangkok, limiting diplomatic relations to the chargé d'affaires level. Cambodia retaliated by expelling the Thai ambassador and recalling all diplomatic staff. The violence has resulted in significant casualties. Thailand reports 20 deaths and many injuries, with Cambodian figures yet to be released. Thousands have been displaced across Thailand’s Surin, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani provinces and Cambodia’s Oddar Meanchey region. The Thai leadership has warned that the escalations could “move towards war.” Meanwhile, Cambodia has announced their combat preparedness, threatening the possibility of a full-blown war if immediate de-escalation is not achieved.

Third, the bilateral crisis and its fallouts on Thailand’s internal politics. A leaked phone call between Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodia’s former leader Hun Sen has stirred public outrage in Thailand. On 1 July, the Constitutional Court suspended Paetongtarn amid mounting pressure. During the call, she referred to Hun Sen as “uncle” and criticized the Thai military, calling it “the opposite side.”  The remarks were perceived as a betrayal of national sovereignty, fuelling criticism that Paetongtarn undermined Thailand’s powerful military. The suspension not only destabilised the parliament, but also ruptured the civil-military relations as the Prime Minister's comments directly insulted the Thai military, a powerful political actor as well.

Fourth, strong nationalist and cultural sentiments continue to fuel the conflict. The disputed temples—Preah Vihear and Ta Muen Thom—hold deep historical and symbolic significance. Both countries frame military actions as a defence of cultural identity. In Thailand, Paetongtarn’s perceived alignment with Cambodia and her criticism of the military have amplified nationalistic outrage. In both countries, leaders face intense pressure to uphold national pride, making compromise politically risky and public reconciliation difficult.
 
In perspective
The sudden breakdown in diplomatic relations and the aggressive responses from both sides have complicated the chances of short term military and long term political de-escalation. The persistent trading of accusations and retaliatory measures, including Cambodia’s ban of Thai imports, Thailand’s tightened border restrictions, severely deteriorate bilateral ties. 

The differences in accepting a third-party-led negotiation further narrow the window for resolution. Without diplomatic engagement, the crisis is likely to worsen further.

The War in Ukraine: Third round of negotiations in Turkey ends without a ceasefire
Padmashree Anandhan
 
In the news
On 23 July, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the return of 1,000 prisoners of war in an exchange coordinated in Istanbul. According to him, the returned soldiers were seriously ill or injured. This follows the third round of Russia-Ukraine talks that focused mainly on prisoner swap and return of soldier bodies. The Russian government confirmed the exchange of 3000 more bodies of the soldiers and a brief ceasefire to facilitate the exchange. Discussions also included the possibility of forming three working groups to look at political, military, and humanitarian matters virtually. 

On 21 July, Russia’s spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized that there were significant diplomatic hurdles to overcome, as the positions of both sides remain "diametrically opposed." Russia demands that Ukraine give up territories occupied by Russia since the 2022 invasion, while Ukraine insists on Russia ending its attacks and respecting its NATO aspirations. 

On 21 July, Zelenskyy confirmed the Russian air strikes and reported the damage across Kyiv, Kharkiv and Ivano-Frankivsk regions. The attacks were also observed across Sumy, Khmelnitsky, Kirovograd, Nikolayev, and Poltava regions, and in the Kyiv-occupied part of Kherson Region. It involved more than 420 drones and more than 20 missiles, resulting in the deaths of two and 15 injuries. 

On 24 July, a new bill was submitted in Ukraine’s parliament to restore the power of the anti-corruption bodies (National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO)). This comes after several protesters rallied in Kyiv against the vote for a new law that reduces the independence of the anti-corruption agencies. It also led to criticism and concern across Europe, questioning Ukraine’s anti-corruption reforms and accession into the EU.

On 24 July, Reuters reported on the shipment of Chinese-made L550E engines to Russia under the “industrial refrigeration units” tag to avoid sanctions. These engines are known to boost Russia’s Garpita-A1 drones to target Ukraine. According to the report, the engine and navigation components were exported from Beijing. However, China’s government denies such shipments and affirms complying with international regulations.

Issues at large
First, the limited progress in the direct talks between Ukraine and Russia in Turkey. The first set of negotiations took place in May, when Ukraine and Russia agreed to swap 1,000 prisoners, but no progress was seen towards a ceasefire. During the second round in June, they agreed to exchange severely wounded and ill prisoners along with the return of deceased soldiers. Both Ukraine and Russia presented two sets of memorandums. Russia demanded Ukraine’s withdrawal from the annexed regions (Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia) and abandon its NATO membership goal. Ukraine called for a full ceasefire and security guarantees. These differences continue to remain as the third round of talks fails to achieve any major outcome to pause the war.

Second, Russia’s responses to further sanctions and Trump’s warnings. Moscow continues to be stubborn in its demands to cede the annexed territories from Ukraine and aims to end Ukraine’s accession into NATO. While the West has pledged to accelerate its support to Ukraine through the supply of advanced air defence systems such as Patriot missiles and further the sanctions, except condemnation, there have been no differences in Russia’s offensive on the ground. In the latest Sumy offensive, it claims to have advanced 190 square kilometres into Sumy city. Additionally, it has launched several rounds of missiles and drones across Ukraine, especially in the west, targeting civilian and military infrastructure. While the economic sanctions have begun to extend into entities in China and India, Russia continues its strikes.

Third, China’s support to Russia. Beijing denies supporting Russia in the war, but intelligence reports reveal China being a “strategic enabler” and material supporter of Russia. It is found to have provided lethal aid such as drone engines, navigation systems and micro-electronics through undercover channels. Apart from this, trading through the Yuan and “China Track” platforms has helped Russia reconcile payments, avoiding the SWIFT financial systems of the West. Its support at the technology and economy level has helped Russia to maintain its battlefield stance. The indirect backing of China has helped it to avoid global confrontation, which has been key to prolonging the war.
 
In perspective
An abrupt stall to the ceasefire negotiations, but humanitarian efforts thrive. Ever since Trump took the presidency, the efforts to achieve a temporary ceasefire have been rampant. Despite the continued efforts of the Trump administration and Europe’s sanctions, Russia continues to strike steadily on the ground and remains firm on the negotiations. With no positive signal from Russia to Trump’s 50-day deadline, the US ceasefire mediation efforts have hit a Russian concrete wall with no breakthrough in sight. 

Issues in Peace and Conflict This Week:
Regional Roundups
Padmashree Anandhan, Anu Maria Joseph, Rohini Reenum, Femy Francis, Abhiruchi Chowdhury, Kasvi Batra, Brighty Ann Sarah, R Preetha, Lekshmi MK, Aparna A Nair, M Kejia, Vaihali Chittrothu and Santhiya M 

China, East, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific
China: Construction of the Yarlung Tsangpo hydropower dam begins despite concerns from India
On 19 July, China's Premier Li Qiang inaugurated the construction of the world's largest hydropower dam in Tibet on the Yarlung Tsangpo. The dam consists of five cascade hydropower stations with the capacity to produce 300 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. It is estimated to cost USD 170 billion and ten years to complete. The project can add up to USD 16.7 billion to China’s GDP annually. However, India and Bangladesh have raised concerns about the dam’s impact on the water supply and the environment, as millions of people live downstream of the Yarlung Tsangpo River, which becomes the Brahmaputra River as it flows out of Tibet. In January, India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson expressed its concerns to the Chinese side “over mega projects on rivers in their territory,” claiming that the Chinese side “has been urged to ensure that activities in upstream areas do not harm the interests of downstream states of the Brahmaputra” and that India will continue to “monitor and take necessary measures” to protect its interests.

China: Defence Ministry announces first joint army drills with Vietnam
On 20 July, China’s Ministry of National Defence reported that China and Vietnam will conduct their first joint army training exercise. It will be held in July in southern China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous region, bordering Vietnam. The joint exercise comes in light of growing economic relations between the two countries. The two have previously held joint naval and land border patrols. The ministry stated: “This is the first joint army drill between China and Vietnam, with the theme of ‘joint border patrol training.” This year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Vietnam. This year, China's PLA was part of Vietnam’s annual celebration of the fall of Saigon. It marked 50 years since the end of Vietnam’s civil war.

Myanmar: Indian military delegation arrives in Naypyitaw to discuss border security
On 18 July, The Irrawaddy reported that an Indian military delegation led by Lt Gen Shrinjay Pratap Singh, the deputy chief of Integrated Defence Staff, arrived in Naypyitaw. They held discussions with Myanmar’s deputy military chief, Soe Win, on military cooperation, Indian assistance for post-earthquake recovery in Myanmar, plans for cooperation on border stability, rule of law and development, and the proposed election in December. Separately, a cross-border drone strike by the Indian Army targeted ULFA-I bases in Myanmar’s Nanyun and Lahe townships, reportedly killing five members; three of them were senior commanders. According to ULFA-I, over 100 drones were used in the operation; the group long fought for secession of the state of Assam in northeast India. India shares a 1,600-kilometre porous border with Myanmar, where the mountainous terrain allows rebel fighters to move across undetected.

Cambodia: Prime Minister Hun Manet outlines five points for peace with Thailand
On 22 July, Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet rejected recent allegations from Thailand on Cambodian interference in Thailand's politics, landmine issues, and disputed border areas, including the Emerald Triangle and Ta Muean Thom temple. On his social media, he stated them as "baseless accusations" by political leadership, the military and the media. In a social media post, Hun Manet issued five points for ethical conduct between countries. It includes no unilateral act by a country in disputed areas, Cambodia's territorial red lines must not be crossed, Cambodia has not violated others but will defend itself if provoked, accusations without proof are unethical, and Cambodia supports peaceful dialogue between countries, stating that Cambodia supports peaceful dialogue to resolve conflicts.

Thailand–Cambodia: Border tensions rise over landmines after Preah Vihear dispute 
On 21 July, Thailand accused Cambodia of planting landmines inside Thai territory, violating international norms. This followed an earlier incident on 16 July, where three Thailand's soldiers were hurt by landmines near the Thailand-Cambodian border. According to Cambodia’s Mine Action Centre, approximately four to six million landmines lie scattered across Cambodia. This happened following the border clash near Preah Vihear in late May, where a Cambodian soldier died. Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that it intends to take action against Cambodia under the United Nations’ Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention. Cambodia denied these claims, stating that Thai armed personnel acted in violation of the Border Control Agreement “by deviating from their established patrol routes and creating a new route that entered Cambodia’s sovereign territory.” 

South Asia
Pakistan: Interior Minister emphasises strengthening counter-terrorism efforts and border security during visit to Kabul
On 20 July, Pakistan’s Minister for Interior, Mohsin Naqvi, met with the Interior Minister of the Taliban government, Sirajuddin Haqqani, in Kabul. The two leaders deliberated on “counter-terrorism, border security, and repatriation of Afghan nationals.” The meeting emphasised the two countries’ resolve towards “stability and cooperation” in the region. They delved into the threat posed by Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The two leaders agreed on enhancing bilateral efforts to increase security at the border and eradicate terrorism. 

Pakistan: Security forces neutralise four militants in Kalat, Balochistan
On 20 July, security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation in Kalat, Balochistan. The security forces managed to neutralise four militants. As per the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), “weapons, ammunition, and explosives” were retrieved from the neutralised militants. The ISPR further informed that “search operations” are being carried out to hunt down other militants operating in the area. 

Pakistan: Security forces eliminate nine militants in Malakand, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
On 20 July, security forces in cooperation with the other law enforcement agencies initiated a “joint operation” in Malakand, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The operation resulted in the killing of nine militants. Further, the security forces were able to detain eight militants. The security forces dismantled two militant camps and retrieved huge quantities of “weapons, ammunition, and explosives.” The ISPR claimed that the residents of the area applauded the security forces and conveyed their “full support.” Search operations are being carried out for other militants active in the region. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif appreciated the efforts put in by the security forces and reiterated their resolve to eradicate the threat posed by militants who are allegedly supported by India.

Pakistan: Strengthens defence ties with Libya
On 18 July, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir held a meeting with Commander-in-Chief of Libyan Armed Forces Saddam Khalifa Hafta in Rawalpindi. The two sides decided to strengthen defence ties via “industrial collaboration and exchange of technical expertise.” Both leaders delved into issues of common interest, conveyed their resolve to enhance defence relations. After meeting the Chief of Army Staff, the Libyan military general met Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif. Sharif conveyed his interest to see increased cooperation between two countries in areas of “defence, economy and people to people to people ties.”

India: The US Department of State declares the Resistance Front as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation
On 17 July, the US Department of State designated The Resistance Front (TRF) as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO) and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT). US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that this action against the TRF “demonstrates the Trump administration’s commitment to protecting our national security interests, countering terrorism, and enforcing President Trump’s call for justice for the Pahalgam attack.” India’s National Investigation Agency had identified TRF, a proxy of Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)'s head Sheikh Sajjad Gul, as the mastermind of the attack. India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar hailed the development as a “strong affirmation of India-US counter-terrorism cooperation.”

The Middle East and Africa
Iran: President Pezeshkian reiterates continued uranium enrichment and readiness against future Israeli attack
On 23 July, in an interview with Al Jazeera, Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s readiness to counter any war that Israel would wage and warned that it would retaliate “deep inside Israel again.” He reiterated that Iran will not abandon its nuclear programme and will continue it for peaceful purposes. He added that uranium enrichment will continue “within the framework of international laws.” This statement came after the E3 countries warned of reimposing sanctions on Iran if a nuclear deal is not reached by the end of August. He expressed scepticism over the longevity of the US-brokered ceasefire between Iran and Israel following the 12-day confrontation. 

Iran: Reimposing international sanctions would complicate nuclear confrontation, says Deputy Foreign Minister
On 22 July, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister, Kazem Gharibabadi, said that reimposing international sanctions on Iran would make the “situation” over its nuclear programme more complicated. This statement comes ahead of Iran’s scheduled meeting on 25 July with the E-3 countries, comprising the UK, France, and Germany. However, Gharibabadi stated that Iran’s effort is aimed at finding common, mutually acceptable solutions “to manage the situation." The three European countries, along with China and Russia, are the remaining parties to the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), from which the US withdrew in 2018. 

The War in Gaza: 33 people, including 12 children, die from malnutrition in two days, says Gaza's health ministry
On 22 July, EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas condemned Israel's attack on Palestinians seeking aid, calling the act "indefensible." She stated that "all options remain on the table if Israel doesn’t deliver on its pledges," of increasing humanitarian aid trucks, crossing points and aid distribution in Gaza. In July, the EU warned of the suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, which included trade relations, to pressure Israel into improving the humanitarian conditions in Gaza. 25 western countries, including the UK, France, and Canada, have demanded that Israel immediately cease the "inhumane killings" of Palestinians. Gaza's health ministry has reported 33 deaths from malnutrition, including 12 children, in the last 48 hours. On 21 July, UN Chief, Antonio Guterres, warned that the "last lifelines " in Gaza were collapsing.

Syria: The US condemns Israel's attack on Syria
On 18 June, the US condemned Israel's strikes on Syria. US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated that the US was "engaging diplomatically with Israel and Syria at the highest levels," and has made its "displeasure" on the matter. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan accused Israel of attempting to sabotage the recent ceasefire. On 17 June, Syrian President Mohammed al-Sharaa thanked the US, Arab, and Turkish efforts to facilitate the ceasefire in Suweida after violent clashes between the Bedouin tribes and Druze militias, and the subsequent Israeli attacks.

Syria: Bedouin civilians evacuated from Suweida; UN humanitarian aid restricted from entering the city
On 21 July, Reuters reported the evacuation of 300 Bedouin civilians from the city of Suweida following the US-brokered truce between Druze militias and Bedouin tribes. The UN has reported that at least 93,000 people have been displaced by the fighting, including from Damascus and the Daraa province in the west. On 20 July, the UN stated that the entry of humanitarian aid and medical supply convoys of the Syrian Arab Red Crescent had been restricted in Suweida.

Sudan: Kordofan emerges as a major front in the ongoing civil war
On 22 July, the BBC reported on Sudan’s Kordofan region emerging as a central battleground in the war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The region is home to vital oil infrastructure and lies at a strategic crossroads between the capital and western Sudan. Control over Kordofan could shift the direction of a war that has already left more than twelve million people displaced. Recent army airstrikes in the towns of el Fula and Abu Zabad killed many civilians and drew condemnation from the UN. The RSF has also been accused of launching attacks on villages and burning homes. Both sides are now fighting for control of el Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan. As violence intensifies, the fighting in Kordofan could prolong the war. 

Kenya: Watchdog blames police for deadly protest crackdown
On 24 July, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) released a report accusing the police of using disproportionate force during recent protests that left 65 people dead. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority said that the majority of the deaths were linked to police actions. Over four protest days between June and July, more than 340 civilians and 170 police officers were injured. The protests were against police brutality and government policies. On 7 July, 41 people died as demonstrations turned deadly in multiple towns. As pressure mounted for justice, the government blamed criminals for the unrest. Tensions remain high as citizens demand accountability and reform. 

Mozambique: Strengthening defence ties with Russia 
On 23 July, Mozambique’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maria Manuela Lucas, met Russian officials during her visit to Moscow. During the meeting, both countries reaffirmed their defence partnership. She voiced concern over the Ukraine war and its repercussions on Africa’s food security. She expressed hope for a peaceful resolution during the upcoming Ukraine-Russia talks. Russia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sergey Lavrov, discussed Russia’s continued support for Mozambique’s defence, especially in counter terrorism efforts. In 2019, Mozambique hired Russian mercenaries for assistance in fighting the rebels in the northern Cabo Delgado region. 

DRC: M23 rebels sign ceasefire deal in Qatar
On 19 July, the Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23 rebel group signed a ceasefire agreement in Qatar, ending months of deadly fighting in eastern Congo. The deal marks the first time the two sides have directly agreed to a ceasefire. The Declaration of Principles includes promises to cease attacks, refrain from hate speech, and halt territorial advances. A final peace agreement is set for 18 August, and it would reflect a US-brokered deal signed between DR Congo and Rwanda in June.  The African Union has welcomed the deal.

Senegal: French troops leave the last military base
On 17 July, the commander of the French forces in Africa, General Pascal Ianni, transferred control of France’s last major military facility, Camp Geille, to Senegalese Chief of the General Staff Mbaye Cisse. General Ianni stated that this withdrawal “marks a new stage in the evolution of the partnership” between the two armed forces, highlighting that it is a “response to the Senegalese authorities’ wish” to discontinue the presence of permanent foreign forces on their territory. Previously, Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye declared that French military bases would need to be transferred as they were “incompatible” with Senegalese sovereignty. This development comes after the French withdrawal from other countries in the region, including Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Chad. Considering its significantly reduced presence in the West and Central African region, France has now shifted its focus to training, intelligence sharing, and assisting countries.

Togo: Protests over the new constitution extending Gnassingbé’s rule
On 24 July, widespread protests erupted in Togo following the adoption of the controversial new constitution, allowing Faure Gnassingbé to remain as president, bypassing the presidential term limits. He has been in power since 2005. This change, approved by the parliament without a public referendum, sparked anger among young Togolese, activists and cultural figures. At least five protesters died and a dozen were detained. 

Mali: Army and Wagner mercenaries accused of killing Fulani men
On 23 July, Human Rights Watch accused Mali’s armed forces and Russia’s Wagner Group of executing at least a dozen ethnic Fulani men and forcibly abducting 81 others during operations since January. The joint campaigns were aimed at Islamist militants, but HRW stated that Fulani civilians were being targeted based on suspected ties to militant groups.  It urged the African Union to push Mali’s junta to investigate the allegations and prevent further violations. 

Western Sahara: Portugal supports Morocco’s autonomy proposal
On 23 July, Portugal announced its support for Morocco’s plan to settle the ongoing conflict in Western Sahara. Portugal’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Paulo Rangel, made the announcement during a diplomatic meeting with other countries that support Morocco’s plan to give the region limited self-rule. He described the proposal as “serious and credible.” The conflict over Western Sahara has been ongoing since Spain left the territory in 1975. Morocco claims sovereignty over the territory. Meanwhile, the rebel group, Polisario Front, supported by Algeria, seeks full independence for the region. The Polisario Front rejected Morocco’s offer and insisted that an independence vote was an acceptable path forward.

Europe and the Americas
The War in Ukraine: Zelensky says Russia’s missile and drone attacks kill two; Kyiv attacks airports in Moscow
On 21 July, Ukraine’s President Zelensky stated that Russia’s missile and drone attacks killed two people, injured 15 and caused property damage and fires. Ukraine’s air force stated that this attack involved 426 drones and 24 missiles in Kyiv, while 23 drones attacked other parts of Ukraine. The attack destroyed a kindergarten, residential buildings, and other civilian infrastructure, said Zelensky. Russia’s media reported that Ukraine launched 117 drones, of which 30 attacked Moscow. The attack damaged airports serving Moscow, causing delays and cancellations of flights.

The War in Ukraine: NATO commander indicates swift transfer of Patriot missiles to Kyiv
On 17 July, NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), Alexus Grynkewich, stated that there is close coordination with Germany on preparations to transfer the Patriot missiles to Ukraine “as quickly as possible.” Grynkewich highlighted that there was a sequence issue regarding deliveries to Ukraine. He stated that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio pointed out European capabilities for supplying Ukraine more quickly than production lines otherwise. However, Grynkewich said that “the production line can then be used to backfill the capabilities that others donate.” This development comes after US President Donald Trump announced to supply Ukraine with additional arms and weaponry, particularly the Patriot missile systems. Previously, after a meeting with US Secretary of Defence, Pete Hegseth, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius announced to deliver two US-made Patriot systems, potentially within days or weeks. Germany has donated three of its own Patriot systems to Ukraine.

UK and Turkey: Sign MoU for Eurofighter Typhoon jet sale
On 23 July, the UK and Turkey signed an MoU for the sale of Eurofighter Typhoon jets. The agreement was signed between Turkey’s Defence Minister, YaÅŸar Güler, and UK Defence Secretary John Healey during a defence industry fair in Istanbul. Turkey aims to purchase 40 Eurofighter Typhoons to modernise its air force. The jets are built by a European consortium, led by the UK. Germany initially opposed the sale but later changed its stance. The countries view this as a step towards a full agreement, and Turkey is still negotiating price and technical terms, and is expected to submit a counter-proposal. Turkey is looking to rejoin the US-led F-35 programme, from which it was ousted in 2019 after buying the S-400 missiles from Russia. Additionally, Turkey is actively working on its 5th-generation fighter jet called KAAN, which is expected to be operational by 2028.

About the authors
Rohini Reenum is a PhD Scholar at NIAS. Padmashree Anandhan, Anu Maria Joseph and Femy Francis are Project Associates at NIAS. Abhiruchi Chowdhury is a Research Assistant at NIAS. Kasvi Batra is a Research Intern at NIAS. Brighty Ann Sarah and R Preetha are postgraduate students at the Department of International Studies, Stella Maris College, Chennai. Lekshmi MK is a postgraduate student at the Department of Political Science, Madras Christian College, Chennai. Santhiya M and Aparna A Nair are undergraduate students at the Department of Political Science, Madras Christian College, Chennai. M Kejia is an undergraduate student at the Department of Political Science and International Relations, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry. Swati Sood is an undergraduate student at Vivekananda College, University of Delhi. Vaihali Chittrothu is an undergraduate student at the Department of Political Science, St Ann's College for Women, Hyderabad.

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December 2018 | CWA # 67

Seetha Lakshmi Dinesh Iyer | Research Associate, ISSSP, NIAS

Afghanistan