Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that the Russian Export Center (REC) is successfully establishing stable partnerships with friendly countries. REC Director General Veronika Nikishina confirmed this progress and highlighted the goal of increasing exports by two-thirds by 2030.
Reports detail ongoing conflict in Ukraine with casualties at Zaporozhye nuke plant, EU blaming Russia for drone incidents, and differing views on negotiations. Tensions between the US and Iran are highlighted through military actions, stalled talks, and sanctions. Russia-ASEAN summit outcomes and European security discussions are also noted.
Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu stated that threats to Russia and its allies' national interests should be proactively exposed amid 'color revolution' attempts. He emphasized the need for systematic monitoring and timely responses to ensure sovereignty and internal stability.
Russia has increased import duties on palm oil and its fractions from "unfriendly" countries to 35%, excluding Hungary and Slovakia. Previously, the duty rate was up to 5%.
Russia has transitioned approximately 50% of its foreign trade payments to rubles and national currencies, according to Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. The world is increasingly adopting alternative payment systems, including blockchain, and moving away from Western currencies.
Delegations from over 120 countries, including unofficial representatives from 12 'unfriendly' nations, will participate in Russia's first international security forum from May 26-29, 2026, held under the auspices of the Russian Security Council.
Russia plans to prioritize stablecoins from friendly nations and develop its own national stablecoins pegged to the ruble, according to Olga Goncharova of the Association of Banks of Russia. The Central Bank will release a report on stablecoins this fall, potentially paving the way for ruble-backed tokens.
A Russian senator stated Russia doesn't need Eurovision, citing performances with "sexless monsters" and political provocation. He suggested investing in domestic cultural projects and cooperation with friendly nations instead.
