Morning reports covered Ukraine-Hezbollah ceasefire developments, while Russian sources claimed destruction of 22 Ukrainian drones overnight. Putin's arrival in Kazakhstan for strategic partnership talks coincided with unprecedented currency market developments - the ruble fell to post-March 2022 lows against major currencies.
By afternoon, the Central Bank announced suspension of foreign currency purchases until 2025 and doubled yuan sales from reserves, marking a significant shift in monetary policy. The move followed several days of currency pressure that saw the euro crossing 120 rubles.
Evening coverage focused on Trump's nomination of Keith Kellogg as Ukraine envoy and US suggestions to lower Ukraine's draft age to 18. Russian officials continued responding to previous days' ATACMS strikes near Kursk, with Lavrov characterizing Biden's aid intentions as "thievish instincts."