The Russian Orthodox Church's staunchly pro-invasion policies have tarnished its reputation abroad, as it increasingly plays a role akin to “weaponizing religion” in service of the Kremlin.

Turkiye, currently possessing 11 mine-hunting ships, will lead the Black Sea Mine Countermeasure Working Group and provide Bulgaria and Romania with the necessary capabilities.

Croatia officially entered the Schengen area, while Bulgaria and Romania were rejected due to members' concerns about the increasing transit of refugees and regular migrants through them into the region's territory.