Russia-ASEAN Summit in Kazan: President Vladimir Putin used the Russia-ASEAN meeting to push a wider “strategic partnership” with ASEAN states including Brunei, with leaders backing a Kazan Declaration plus plans for energy, culture and a 2026–2030 action plan. Ukraine–Russia Escalation: Ukraine’s drone strikes on Moscow—linked to an attack on the Moscow Oil Refinery—prompted Russia to vow “massive group strikes” on Kyiv, while the US issued a security alert to Americans in Russia. Brunei in the regional spotlight: Brunei is named among ASEAN partners at the summit, with Putin also suggesting a Russia–Brunei intergovernmental commission and highlighting tourism potential. Local business angle: Shell says Elohor Aiboni, currently on assignment at Brunei Shell Petroleum, will become Executive Vice President and Country Chair for Nigeria from Aug 1, 2026. Regional security watch: The Philippines says China removed a “temporary” structure from Scarborough Shoal after protests, amid ongoing South China Sea tensions.