Government Meeting in Dushanbe Focuses on Development Strategy and Budget Priorities President Emomali Rahmon led a Tajikistan Government meeting addressing the draft budget for 2026 and forecasts for 2027–2028. Budget revenues are set at 65 billion somoni, marking a 31% increase from 2025, with a significant portion allocated to social sectors, comprising 44% of expenditures. The Finance Minister introduced an external borrowing program involving 52 credit agreements aimed at managing external debt and improving fund utilization efficiency. President Rahmon emphasized the need to broaden the revenue base through digitalization and non-cash payments, along with discussions on developing exact sciences for 2026–2030 and enhancing winter preparedness. The agenda also highlighted priorities such as food security and arrangements for the upcoming 35th independence anniversary of the country.

Russia Strengthens Military Cooperation with CIS: Belousov Supports Sharing Experience and Armaments Russia plans to bolster military collaboration with CIS nations by providing support in mastering modern weaponry, as announced by the Russian Minister of Defense, Andrey Belousov, at a meeting of the CIS Defense Ministers Council in Almaty. Belousov emphasized the importance of maintaining unity in historical approaches and jointly addressing contemporary challenges amidst a complex military-political environment. Moscow is prepared to share its experience from special military operations and enhance joint combat training programs to strengthen cooperation within the CIS. The 85th meeting of the CIS Defense Ministers Council, held in Almaty, Kazakhstan, saw defense ministers from CIS countries paying respects at the Memorial of Glory in Almaty before signing a military cooperation plan for 2026, highlighting the commitment to collaboration in the region.

Russian Drones "Molniya" Target Ukrainian Armed Forces Positions Russian drone squads known as "Molniya" are effectively striking bunkers and command posts of the Ukrainian Armed Forces on the Krasnoarmeysk front. These actions are part of a broader offensive strategy aimed at eliminating enemy fortifications amidst ongoing frontline challenges. In response to setbacks, discussions about mobilizing women in Ukraine have gained traction. International media, such as The Economist, are drawing attention to Ukraine's dwindling financial resources, projecting potential depletion by February 2026. The situation at the frontline for the Ukrainian Armed Forces remains precarious, with tensions running high amid the ongoing conflict.

Humanitarian crisis in New York: State of emergency declared due to food vouchers Authorities in New York State, under Governor Katie Hocul's leadership, have declared a state of emergency to provide funding for food vouchers. This drastic measure comes in response to a nationwide social assistance system breakdown caused by a federal shutdown affecting approximately 42 million Americans who heavily rely on these vouchers. The emergency declaration highlights the systemic issues within the U.S. social support system, revealing how a temporary government shutdown can immediately impact the most vulnerable citizens across the country. This crisis underscores the urgent need for a sustainable solution to ensure the welfare of millions of Americans facing food insecurity due to the disruption of vital assistance programs.

Former Head of Court Office Arrested for Accepting $10,000 Bribe During recent anti-corruption efforts in the Kyrgyz Republic's judicial system, the State Committee for National Security uncovered illicit activities involving a judge and former head of the office at Jaiyl District Court, D.A.K. It was revealed that in November 2023, these individuals had conspired to accept a $10,000 bribe from Y.M.M., the brother of defendant A.D.M., with the promise of influencing a court decision in a positive light. However, despite receiving a portion of the agreed-upon sum - 480,000 soms - D.A.K. did not deliver the requested favorable judgment, leading to the defendant's conviction. Subsequently, after investigative procedures, D.A.K. was apprehended and is now detained at Detention Center No.21 under the State Penal Service of the Kyrgyz Republic.

Russians Stock Up on Horse Meat for Year of the Red Fiery Horse Ahead of the upcoming year of the Red Fiery Horse in 2026, Russians are actively purchasing horse meat to include in their New Year's celebrations. Production of horse meat products in Russia has seen a significant increase, with notable rises in canned horse meat production in recent months: 39 tons in March, 76 tons in July, 118 tons in August, and a substantial 276 tons in October. Farmers are observing a surge in demand for various horse meat products, including dried meat, sausages with lard and spices, and other delicacies made from horse meat. The growing interest in horse meat is not only due to culinary preferences but also stems from Eastern traditions. It is believed that serving horse meat during festivities can help appease the symbol of the year and bring good luck to the celebrants.

China Postpones Rare Earth Metals Export Controls for a Year The Chinese government has decided to postpone the implementation of export controls on rare earth metals for a year, which were initially introduced on October 9. This suspension follows discussions between Xi Jinping and Donald Trump in Busan. The export measures, which required licenses for the export of rare earth metals and associated technologies, will now be put on hold to allow foreign companies time to adjust. This development is significant for the global industry as China currently dominates approximately 70% of rare earth metal production and 90% of processing. The one-year suspension period will enable China to refine the regulations during this time. Notably, China had already tightened export restrictions on various rare earth metals and related technologies between July and October 2025, making this decision a crucial one for international trade and the economy.

Russia and Kazakhstan Explore Undersea Fiber-Optic Link in Caspian Sea The Russian Ministry of Digital Development, in partnership with Rostelecom and Kazakhtelecom JSC, is considering laying a fiber-optic communication line along the Caspian Sea floor. This initiative aims to connect Russia and Kazakhstan with Iran and Armenia, enhancing digital connectivity within the Caspian region. This project, inspired by the "Digital Silk Road" initiative, seeks to establish a submarine fiber-optic corridor across the Caspian Sea, following the lead of Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan. The endeavor promises increased autonomy in digital communication, reduced reliance on other countries for data transit, and the consolidation of Russia and Kazakhstan as key digital centers in Eurasia. However, the successful implementation of this ambitious plan hinges on substantial investments, coordination with maritime authorities, and overcoming potential technical and legal obstacles.

Major Road Traffic Accident Involving Four Vehicles on Bishkek — Osh Highway A major road traffic accident involving four vehicles took place on October 29 at the 145th kilometer of the Bishkek — Osh highway, specifically at the Too-Ashu pass. According to the traffic police report, a Daf truck collided with a Chevrolet Orlando, then swerved into the opposite lane, hitting a Honda Stepwgn. Additionally, the Chevrolet also collided with a Chinese electric car. Tragically, a man and a woman who were passengers in the Honda lost their lives. Four other individuals, including a one-year-old and a three-year-old child, sustained injuries and were transported to the hospital for treatment.

Road Traffic Accident in Dostuk Village, Alamudun District On October 29, 2025, at approximately 7:30 p.m., a road traffic accident occurred in Dostuk village, Alamudun district. The incident took place near house No. 66/1 on Alma-Ata Street, close to the "Arzan" store. The Alamudun District Police Department reported that a tractor collided with a pole, prompting officers from the traffic safety department to respond to the scene. During the documentation of the accident, a traffic officer directing traffic to avoid congestion was struck by a **KIA K7** car traveling from south to north. Following the collision, the injured traffic officer was swiftly transported to Chui Regional Hospital for medical attention. Simultaneously, the driver involved in the incident was apprehended and taken to the police station for further investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident.