Fuel Crisis: Putin finally admitted Russia is facing a “certain shortage” after Ukrainian strikes hit oil refineries, with gas-station queues and missing grades of gasoline; he said gasoline stocks are about 1.7 million tons and a full temporary ban on gasoline exports is in place while a diesel export ban is being considered. Energy War Ripple: Crimea declared an emergency over fuel and power disruptions, while Central Asia feels the shock as fuel prices rise in Kyrgyzstan and other states. Air Defense Push: Russia says it’s developing AI-based air defenses, aiming for results in November, and is forming mobile air-defense groups using FPV interceptor drones. Frontline & Civilian Impact: In Zaporizhzhia, a drone strike on a minibus killed 2 and wounded 6 (including a child); Russia also claims drone interceptions over multiple regions. Baltic Security: Lithuania’s defense ministry sees no signs of a large-scale Russian attack on the Baltics, but warns sabotage threats remain high. Diplomacy & Messaging: Putin said Ukraine proposed a mutual halt to long-range strikes and a leadership meeting, but Moscow is considering it while arguing such limits would benefit Kyiv more than Russia. Corruption Case: Three defense contractors face trial over alleged embezzlement tied to Caspian Flotilla infrastructure.