Kazakhstan's politics closely aligned with Russia, despite attempts to improve international image. Targeting critics, including opposition figure Aydos Sadykov, raises concerns about democratic practices and potential sanctions.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in North Korea for a summit with Kim Jong-un, marking his first visit to the country since 2000. The meeting aims to deepen their relationship, which has strengthened since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Hungary, a Trojan horse to Europe, maintains warm ties with Russia and China, signing deals to strengthen economic collaboration, raising concerns in the EU.