I had a very good conversation this morning with the Prime Minister of Thailand, Anutin Charnvirakul, and the Prime Minister of Cambodia, Hun Manet, concerning the very unfortunate reawakening of their long-running War.

They have agreed to CEASE all shooting effective this evening, and go back to the original Peace Accord made with me, and them, with the help of the Great Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim.

The damage sustained today (12 December) by a foreign-flagged vessel belonging to a Turkish company as a result of an attack on Ukraine’s Port of Chornomorsk points to the validity of the concerns we have previously placed on record regarding maritime security and freedom of navigation, as the ongoing war in our region spreads to the Black Sea domain.

According to the initial information received, the crew of the vessel and the truck drivers onboard are being evacuated, and no harm has come to our citizens as a result of the attack. Our Consulate General in Odesa is closely monitoring developments and providing the necessary support to our citizens.

On this occasion, we once again emphasize the importance of bringing the war between Russia and Ukraine to an end as soon as possible, and we recall the need for an arrangement aimed at preventing escalation in the Black Sea, including the suspension of attacks targeting freedom of navigation as well as the energy and port infrastructure of the parties.

The freeze lasts until Russia ends the war and pays reparations.

No direct transfer of assets to Ukraine: only profits/interest (€3–5bn/year) for now.

This unlocks a plan for up to €165bn in “reparations loans” to Ukraine (effectively grants, repayable only after Russian compensation).

Decision bypasses unanimity to block potential vetoes (e.g. Hungary).

Netanyahu is quietly seeking to block potential US sales of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia and, more urgently, Türkiye—while avoiding any public confrontation with Trump.

Netanyahu appears more concerned about provoking Trump than about the strategic risks of the sales, particularly given Trump’s openness toward Ankara.

At a Dec. 1 meeting with Lockheed Martin executives, Netanyahu explored ways to preserve Israel’s qualitative military edge should regional rivals acquire the advanced aircraft.

Israeli officials are especially alarmed by Türkiye, pointing to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s past threats against Israel and fears that the F-35’s stealth capabilities could undermine Israel’s early-warning defenses.

Unlike in past disputes with US administrations, Netanyahu is relying on quiet lobbying of Trump’s inner circle, recognizing that open opposition is not an option.

Source: Al-Monitor