Russia began a wider rollout of the digital ruble on September 1, 2026. The service is voluntary for individuals, while major banks and qualifying large retailers must make digital-ruble payments possible.
Vladimir Putin signed a decree allowing temporary state management of critical infrastructure in Russia when owners fail to protect facilities or restore their work after attacks. The decree covers energy, industry, communications, transport and logistics.
Russia said its air defenses intercepted 791 Ukrainian drones overnight on August 18. AP reported that Russia 1 and Channel One did not mention the attack in their morning news broadcasts.
Russia’s Supreme Court annulled Yabloko’s registration for the September State Duma election. The anti-war party rejects the allegations against it and says it will appeal.
Russia’s Investigative Committee says it has prepared a bill to treat the use of AI and other information technologies as an aggravating circumstance in some criminal cases. The proposal has not yet become law.
Vladimir Putin has raised the authorized size of Russia’s armed forces for the third time in 2026. The decree adds 25,000 military positions but does not announce mobilization.
Russia’s State Duma was scheduled to consider legislation imposing restrictions on some people living abroad. The measures could block online banking, property transactions and access to consular services.
Moldova’s parliament approved a government led by investor Vasile Tofan. The cabinet plans to promote economic growth, improve public services and continue the country’s path toward European Union membership.
