News in Brief: 2026 is Shaping Up to be a Year of Crises. Armenia's Index Rises

Recent news highlights—brief and substantive:

• According to Freedom House, Armenia's democracy index for 2026 stands at 54, while Azerbaijan has scored 6, Georgia 51, Turkey 32, and Russia 12.
• Military operations in the Middle East continue, exacerbating regional tensions and impacting the global economy.
• Iraq has declared a state of force majeure in its oil fields due to disruptions in navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
• Trump has announced Iran's defeat, emphasizing that he does not seek a ceasefire and is in favor of total victory.
• Trump has called on China and other countries to intervene in the process of reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
• The U.S. is considering options for reducing large-scale military operations against Iran.
• Iran has struck American bases in Baghdad and Kurdish forces in Iraq, also using drones.
• According to CBS News, the U.S. is discussing seizing Iran's nuclear stockpiles.
• The White House has stated that the U.S. could seize Iran's Kharg Island at any time.
• Iran's Foreign Minister has indicated that most Britons oppose war with Iran and has warned of self-defense measures.
• Trump has reiterated that the U.S. is close to its objectives and is discussing scaling back actions against Iran.
• Trump criticized Britain, stating it should have supported the U.S. more quickly in actions against Iran.
• Germany has clarified its arms export rules to Ukraine and the Middle East, including defense measures.
• Austria and Italy have decided to reduce fuel taxes to mitigate the impact of the conflict over Iran.
• Trump has stated that U.S.-Russia dialogue regarding Ukraine is ongoing almost daily and that progress is being made.
• The Kremlin has announced that it has not yet formed a position on participating in the U.S.-initiated "Peace Council."
• The Rostov region has been subjected to a large drone attack, while 27 drones were shot down near Moscow.
• Ukraine reports that Russia continues to strike various regions of the country.
• Danish media reports that Danish soldiers were prepared to blow up Greenland's runways in case of a possible U.S. invasion.