9 December 2025
Russia
Russia will limit the export of cash and gold to stabilize the ruble and curb the shadow economy. Under the new regulations, no person can carry more than 100 grams of gold out of the country. It is estimated that Russians took 20-25 tons of gold bars abroad in 2022-23.
Reports indicate that the Russian State Property Chief is steering assets to Putin allies. Undervalued assets are being sold to Russian businessmen close to Putin. Obviously, it is a bribe for their loyalty. For example, Rosspirtprom, Russia’s largest alcohol producer, was sold for 8 billion rubles ($104.8 million).
Russian soldiers returning from the front have accounted for one thousand killings and injuries in Russia. 551 Russians have died at the hands of veterans, including “274 were murdered, 163 died after suffering severe bodily harm, 78 were killed in road accidents, and another 36 died in other criminal cases, including drug-related offences.”
Cambodia-Thailand
Thailand’s foreign minister stated that there is “no space for diplomacy” in the recent clash with Cambodia. The increase in Thai military activity also suggests that the conflict will be entering a deeper phase.
DRC-Rwanda
Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi accuses Rwanda of violating the newly signed peace accord as M23 rebels are advancing on the town of Uvira. The DRC is also claiming that Rwandan forces had carried out attacks in several locations in South Kivu province.
US-China-Nvidia
President Trump announced that he will permit the sale of Nvidia’s advanced H200 chips to “approved customers” in China. H200 is not as advanced as the company’s most advanced AI semiconductor, the Blackwell chip.
Sudan
The RSF claims that they have taken the Heglig oilfield in South Kordofan. This is significant because Heglig houses the country’s central oil processing facility and is a primary source of income for the Sudanese government. Sudan’s other major oil field, Block 6, was also taken by the RSF earlier in the civil war.
Benin
A group of soldiers attempted a coup in Benin. It failed, and the two high-ranking officers whom they had held hostage have been released. A manhunt continues to find the rest of the coup plotters.
Social media wires
M23 rapid advance
Thai troops raise the flag
Featured Photo: “Thai soldiers and Type-85 AFV during 2010 protests” – Wikimedia Commons, 2025
The Wires Brief is a daily breaking news report incorporating wire service news and social media updates. DefRep cannot verify the authenticity of social media reporters nor the accuracy of social media updates. Feature photos are altered with grayscale.