Vladimir Putin met Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenko in Moscow as concern grew over reports that Russia could test Nato’s resolve, potentially near Poland. The meeting was expected to focus on the war in Ukraine, while an unconfirmed visit by CIA director John Ratcliffe to Moscow heightened speculation about behind-the-scenes diplomacy and security warnings.

Reports cited by the article suggest Russian planners may be considering a limited border incident or strikes on infrastructure to pressure Western countries into reducing support for Ukraine, though these claims have not been independently verified. A Russian missile reportedly entered Polish airspace in July, prompting Poland and Nato to activate defences; Nato secretary-general Mark Rutte described it as reckless and linked it to Russia’s war in Ukraine.