"Putin's Middle East Tour: Strengthening Russian Influence in Saudi Arabia and UAE"

Russia has rejected a new proposal from the United States for the release of two Americans, Paul Whelan and Evan Gershkovich, who are currently detained in Russia on spying charges. The UK has announced new sanctions on Russia's military suppliers, targeting individuals and groups supporting Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin is visiting Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, reasserting Russia's influence in the Middle East. Meanwhile, support for Ukraine is on shaky ground as U.S. lawmakers are in an impasse over future funding, and Kyiv's mayor criticizes President Zelenskyy, agreeing that the war has reached a stalemate.