Weekly Update (Dec 1st to 7th, 2025)

Ukraine: U.S.–Russia talks signal cautious movement

U.S. negotiators held extended talks in Moscow with President Vladimir Putin, adding momentum to efforts to end the war. Parallel discussions continued with Kyiv. On the battlefield, Russia claimed it had captured Pokrovsk in eastern Ukraine, while missile strikes on Ukrainian cities persisted. Despite increased diplomatic activity, deep disagreements - especially over occupied territory - remain unresolved.

Sudan: RSF captures strategic town

Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces claimed control of Babanusa, the army’s last major position in West Kordofan. The loss of the rail hub weakens government supply routes and further isolates Darfur. The army continues to struggle to hold Khartoum amid drone attacks and urban fighting. With peace efforts stalled, RSF advances raise fears of further fragmentation and mass displacement.

Yemen: Southern separatists open a new front

Yemen’s conflict took a sharp turn as the Southern Transitional Council launched a rapid offensive to assert control over the south. STC forces seized territory across several provinces, prompting counterattacks by Saudi-backed government troops. The fighting pits former allies against each other and risks destabilising a fragile truce with Houthi forces in the north.

Haiti: Gangs tighten grip beyond Port-au-Prince

Haiti’s security crisis worsened as armed gangs expanded into the Artibonite region, overrunning towns and key transport routes. Police officials estimate gangs now control around half the region. With the national police overstretched and a planned multinational force slow to deploy, the UN warned that violence is compounding an already severe humanitarian emergency.