ASEAN–Russia Summit in Kazan: Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. arrived in Russia for the ASEAN–Russia Commemorative Summit, with talks and a planned “Kazan Declaration 2026” expected to focus on food and energy security, trade, and even cultural cooperation. Caretaker Government: While Marcos is away, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto and other officials will run the government during his two-day visit. Malaysia–Tatarstan Cooperation: Malaysia’s PM Anwar Ibrahim met Tatarstan’s head in Kazan, highlighting potential deals in oil and gas, refining, digital economy, education, tourism, and halal industry. G7 Push on Ukraine: G7 leaders backed Ukraine’s sovereignty and agreed to boost air defence and long-range capabilities, with added pressure on Russia’s oil and gas war economy. Russian “Traditional Values” Visas: Russia granted 1,112 entry visas last year to foreigners tied to “traditional values,” as Moscow doubles down on its anti-liberal narrative. Cultural Diplomacy: Russia’s cultural envoy Mikhail Shvydkoy visited Tbilisi, arguing culture can rebuild trust and showcasing Russian theatre and film. Armenian Cultural Memory: Armenia reported the arrest of a man accused of damaging inscriptions at the “Mother Armenia” memorial in Gyumri. Pushkin in Yerevan: A Russian ambassador marked Pushkin’s 227th birthday at a Yerevan school, with students presenting a film about their trip to St. Petersburg. Poland Killing of Putin Critic: A Russian artist known for mocking Putin was shot dead near his home in Poland, with prosecutors describing an “execution-style” attack. UK Social Media Ban Debate: UK plans to restrict under-16s’ social media access drew privacy and surveillance concerns from tech and civil society voices.