Financial news: Budget payments in digital rubles will be commission-free for everyone.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Central Bank of Russia

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Bank of Russia made a decision establish zero commissions for transactions from digital ruble accounts of citizens and companies in favor of the state. Thesetariffs will come into force on January 1, 2026.

Importantly, access to these operations will be available only to pilot participants for now. After September 1, 2026, major banks will be required to provide everyone with the ability to open digital ruble wallets and manage their balances, including making budget payments using digital rubles.

Let us remember thatpreviouslyThe regulator has decided to extend the grace period (no commissions) for all other business transactions involving digital rubles until the end of 2026. For citizens, payments and transfers using the digital national currency are free at all times.

Preview photo: SERGEI ILNITSKY / EPA / TASS

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

December 30, 2025. Discover Egypt with Sozvezdie. Cruise Tours 2027. The unique Grand Nile Journey between Cairo and Aswan and updated classic Nile cruises on the Jaz Al Qassida, chartered by a Russian cruise company.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Infoflot Cruise Center – Infoflot Cruise Center –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Dear friends,

Ready for a journey that will rewrite your perception of Egypt? Sozvezdie Cruise Line officially opens sales for Nile cruises for the 2026-2027 season. Rare stops at necropolises, sacred temples, picturesque Nile landscapes, and the comfortable Jaz Al Qassida await you. Choose your ultimate adventure on the Great River of the Pharaohs.

Navigation routes 2026–2027:

The Grand Journey on the Nile between Cairo and Aswan

An exclusive 15-day cruise itinerary along the entire navigable section of the Nile – from Cairo to Aswan or from Aswan to Cairo. The cruise itinerary retraces Thomas Cook's legendary voyage along the Nile and tells the story of Egypt from the Delta of the "Great River of the Pharaohs" to its southern banks.

Authentic Upper and Middle Egypt with numerous rare sites of great interest to history buffs: the necropolises of Tuna el-Gabal and Beni Hasan, the temple complexes at Dendera and Abydos; Coptic monasteries and the most famous sights of Ancient Egypt – the Valley of the Kings, the Karnak Temple and the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut in Luxor, the Temple of Horus at Edfu, the mysterious Philae Island, and much more; the impressive Aswan Dam and the shady Botanical Garden in Aswan; a detailed acquaintance with Cairo – a tour of the treasury of the pharaohs – the Egyptian Museum, a visit to the majestic pyramids of Giza and their mystical guardian – the Sphinx, and an ascent to the observation deck of the citadel fortress.

The cruise experience will be enhanced by the lush natural beauty of the Nile Delta shores.

Cruise dates:

Classic Nile Cruises

A combination of a classic cruise between Aswan and Luxor with an excursion program in Cairo (2 days) and a beach holiday at a Hurghada hotel on an all-inclusive basis (2 days).

You can choose either an 8-day cruise tour from Cairo to Hurghada (3 nights on the Nile cruise) or a 9-day cruise from Hurghada to Cairo (4 nights on the Nile cruise):

All of Egypt's iconic landmarks—the Valley of the Kings, Tutankhamun's Tomb, the Colossi of Memnon, the temples of Isis and Horus—will be explored; the magnificent Aswan Dam will be seen; and the Crocodile Museum will be visited overlooking the Nile; a tour of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo will be held, along with a visit to Egypt's main treasure trove—the surviving pyramids of Giza and their mystical guardian, the Sphinx.

Cruise tour dates:

Egypt cruises are another interesting feature of the "Discovering the World with Sozvezdie" project:

An intimate atmosphere – the Jaz Al Qassida cruise ship will be at the complete disposal of Sozvezdie guests during the cruise; an all-inclusive package tour with a maximum of services – cruise, hotel accommodation, full excursion program, domestic flights and comfortable transfers, tips, medical insurance and visa support (if necessary); a rich pre- or post-cruise program in Cairo and Aswan, with excursions, accommodation, meals (breakfast and dinner) at a 4* hotel in Cairo and lunches at local restaurants, as well as an all-inclusive vacation at a 4* hotel in Hurghada; support, care and attention from the group leader and accompanying staff from Sozvezdie throughout the entire route, assistance with any questions on board the ship; fully Russian-language service – an information chat with pre-cruise preparation, excursions with Russian-speaking guides, an onboard newspaper and a daily program in Russian.

The "Discover Egypt with Constellation" cruise tour period is considered one of the best times to visit Egypt, as there is no extreme heat at this time, and the air and water temperatures are comfortable for relaxation and sightseeing.

Depending on the route you will visit:

Cairo is the capital of Egypt, where majestic pyramids, oriental bazaars, and the bustle of modern city life create a striking contrast. Luxor is an open-air museum housing about a third of all ancient Egyptian monuments, including legendary temples, pharaonic tombs, and colossal statues. Edfu is the best-preserved temple of ancient Egypt, dedicated to the god Horus, patron of the pharaohs' power. Kom Ombo is an architectural phenomenon: a double temple to the gods Sobek and Horus. Its terraces offer stunning views of the Nile. Hurghada is the main resort on the Red Sea, a great place for a family vacation, diving, or fun beach parties. Aswan is the perfect place to experience the rhythm of the great river. Here you'll find the majestic Aswan High Dam, the romantic Temple of Isis, and a true oasis on the Nile—a picturesque botanical garden. El Minyu is a mysterious city in Upper Egypt, where underground tombs and catacombs have been discovered. The necropolis is 2,500 years old. Tell el-Amarna is the lost city of the heretic pharaoh Akhenaten, who renounced the old gods. Excavations continue there today. El Balyanu is a small town on the banks of the Nile, the starting point for a tour of the temple complexes of Dendera and Abydos—the sacred jewels of Ancient Egypt.

Cruise tour programs:

Day 1

Cairo

Meeting at the airport of guests arriving on the recommended flight.

Transfer and check-in at the Flamenco Cairo 4* hotel or a hotel of similar level.

Day 2

Cairo

Breakfast at the hotel. Excursion to the Giza pyramids and the mysterious Sphinx.

Lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try traditional dishes: koshary, kebab, or molokhya – flavors familiar to Egyptians since the time of the pharaohs.

A tour with a visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum, home to ancient treasures: Tutankhamun's gold, statues of gods, and unique artifacts.

Day 3

Cairo – Aswan

Breakfast and check-out from the hotel.

Transfer to Cairo airport for flight to Aswan.

Domestic flight Cairo – Aswan (travel time – 1 hour 30 minutes).

Arrival in Aswan. Transfer to the Jaz Al Qassida cruise ship, check-in.

Lunch and dinner on board.

Day 4

Aswan – Kom Ombo

Breakfast on board. A tour of Aswan, including a visit to the Aswan High Dam and the temple complex on Philae Island. The Aswan High Dam observation deck offers a spectacular view of the vast reservoir, Lake Nasser.

Lunch on board. The ship departs for Kom Ombo.

Arrival in Kom Ombo. Excursion to the Temple of Sobek and Horus, formed from two adjacent temples. The eastern temple is dedicated to Sobek, the god of fertility, and the western temple to "Great Horus," the solar god of war.

Departure of the ship to Edfu. Dinner on board.

Day 5

Edfu

Breakfast on board. Excursion to the Temple of Horus, considered one of the best-preserved in Egypt.

Departure to Luxor via Esna. Lunch on board.

Passing the shipping lock at Esna.

Dinner on board.

Day 6

Luxor – Hurghada

Breakfast on board. End of the cruise on the Jaz Al Qassida.

A tour of the West Bank of the Nile in Luxor: a visit to the Valley of the Kings, the Colossi of Memnon and the Ihram of Queen Hatshepsut.

Lunch at a local restaurant. Excursion along the east bank of the Nile in Luxor: visit to the Karnak Temple.

Transfer to Hurghada (travel time – 3 hours 30 minutes).

Check-in at the Jaz Soma Beach 4* hotel or a similar hotel. All-inclusive accommodations.

Day 7

Hurghada

All-inclusive hotel accommodations include swimming in the warm sea, relaxing by the pool with refreshing cocktails, dining in a variety of restaurants serving local and international cuisine, and enjoying spa treatments.

Day 8

Hurghada

Breakfast and check-out from the hotel.

Transfer to Hurghada airport in time for your recommended flight departure.

About the ship Jaz Al Qassida:

During the cruises, the Jaz Al Qassida will be exclusively at the disposal of Sozvezdie Cruise Line guests. The ship accommodates only 56 guests, and you'll be treated with the care and attention of our experienced cruise management throughout your journey.

By December 2025, the Jaz Al Qassida cruise ship had undergone renovation and modernization, and our general partner also added the features that Sozvezdie guests valued so much to the cruise product.

Full board accommodation, Russian-language service, and an evening program with a national twist will allow you to relax and enjoy the majestic Nile in the most comfortable conditions.

The onboard restaurant offers international, Egyptian, and Eastern cuisine. The menu is available in Russian.

You can also enjoy the open sun deck with a swimming pool and bar. For an additional fee, you can relax in the massage parlor—your own oasis of tranquility on board. The music and aromas of the East will help you forget your everyday worries.

Accommodation: in a cabin of the selected category on the motor ship Jaz Al Qassida;

in a Standard room at the Flamenco Cairo Hotel 4* in Cairo;

in a Standard room at the Jaz Soma Beach 4* hotel in Hurghada;

Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner, including soft drinks during meals, on the Al Qassida motor ship;

breakfast and dinner at the Flamenco Cairo Hotel 4* in Cairo;

lunch (excluding drinks) during the excursion program in Cairo;

All-inclusive system at the Jaz Soma Beach 4* hotel in Hurghada;

Excursions as per the tour program, accompanied by Russian-speaking guides; support from the directorate at all stages of the trip: meeting and assistance upon arrival and departure as per the program; domestic charter flights Cairo – Aswan / Aswan – Cairo; domestic transfers on comfortable buses; medical insurance (for Russian citizens up to and including 64 years of age); an entertainment program on board the ship and an on-board newspaper in Russian; tips for the staff.

Special conditions:

The maximum early booking benefit of 15% applies when paying in full for 2026-2027 cruises by February 1, 2026. Cruise prices on our website include the current early booking offer. "Kids Free" promotion: children 15 years and under (inclusive) travel free when sharing standard berths with an adult. This offer applies to Suite cabins. A 10% discount applies to children 15 years and under (inclusive) sharing standard berths. Installment cruises: 30% advance payment, the remaining balance no later than 60 days before the cruise or according to the seasonal discount period.

Nile Cruises 2027:

Please note; this information is raw content obtained directly from the information source. It is an accurate account of what the source claims, and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peoples'Friendship University of Russia

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The New Year is just around the corner, so it's time for warm greetings and good wishes from RUDN students, faculty, and staff. May all these wishes come true in 2026!

More than 10 years ago, when I stepped into what was then the Ecology Department of RUDN University, I never imagined that university life would be so captivating! And now, 2026 is upon us… One can only guess what lies ahead and what challenges the university will face. But one thing I know for sure: any university, with its rankings and achievements, is made up of people who shape the atmosphere and spirit, achieving amazing results, making astonishing discoveries, and inspiring those around them!

Dear students and colleagues, I sincerely congratulate you on the upcoming New Year! You are the soul of RUDN University! I wish us patience, prudence, and unwavering will!

Forward to new discoveries, achievements and victories!

Irina Golovacheva

Deputy Director of the Institute of Ecology for educational work

RUDN University once became a truly precious gift to me, not just a New Year's gift. Every year it gives me wonderful friends, great opportunities, a wealth of knowledge, and warm memories. In return, on behalf of myself and the entire Student Committee of the Institute of Ecology, I wish everyone connected in one way or another with our great university success, joy, the achievement of their goals, and the fulfillment of their deepest desires in the new year!

Be happy and enjoy every day!

Yulia Shmitko

a second-year student majoring in Ecology and Nature Management

May the new year be like a perfect algorithm for our university—effective, innovative, and opening up new horizons!

I wish that every project we undertake will be groundbreaking, and that students and staff will work together to write the most successful code of the future!

Anton Poddubsky

Dean of the Faculty of Artificial Intelligence

Dear RUDN, may your classrooms be filled with even more inquisitive eyes in the coming year, and may your corridors be filled with lively discussions in all the languages of the world.

I wish us all new discoveries, inspiration, and the same warm, family-like atmosphere that has always been our hallmark!

Pavel Podolko

Head of the Department of Applied Artificial Intelligence, Faculty of Artificial Intelligence

Our RUDN University is the pinnacle of excellence in the art of bringing people together and creating an atmosphere of true hospitality.

May this atmosphere only become warmer in the coming year, and may our large family become even more united.

Anna Ostrovskaya

Director of the Higher School of Management

Dear RUDN University, I wish you even more reasons to share good news and heartwarming stories in the new year.

Let the world see and appreciate our greatest treasure – the smiles and shining eyes of our students and staff,

Anastasia Shikhaleva

Head of the Public Relations and Advertising Department of the Higher School of Management

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2026 from Rector Andrey Rudskoy

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Dear friends!

I sincerely wish you a Happy New Year and Merry Christmas! This is a wonderful time to look back and remember your victories and achievements of the past year, and to start setting goals for the year ahead.

The year 2025 ended with a significant event for our university: we celebrated the 170th anniversary of the birth of Prince Andrei Gagarin, the first director of the St. Petersburg Polytechnic Institute. To mark the occasion, we opened a new museum exhibition dedicated to Andrei Grigorievich, an exhibition of paintings by his great-granddaughter Elena Artsutanova, and held several other large-scale events.

Throughout the year, our talented undergraduate and graduate students won presidential grants and scholarships, and won regional, federal, and international competitions, Olympiads, and sporting events, furthering the Polytechnic's reputation. In December, the "Omnivorous" team achieved a long-awaited victory in the international robot combat championship, and Kirill Prigoda once again confirmed his status as one of the best athletes in the country and the world.

Our young scientists and faculty have won numerous intellectual and creative competitions. We welcomed distinguished guests to the Polytechnic University and honored our university's new honorary doctors. In 2025, these honoraries included: Alexey Likhachev, Director General of the Rosatom State Corporation; Vitaly Savelyev, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation; Oleg Savelyev, Deputy Minister of Defense of Russia; Mohamed Ali Berawi, Professor at the University of Indonesia; Mikhail Piotrovsky, Director of the State Hermitage Museum; Sergey Brilyov, Russian journalist and television host, President of the Global Energy Association; Rustam Minnikhanov, Rais of the Republic of Tatarstan; Valery Kozlov, distinguished Russian scientist and academician; and Georgy Fokin, CEO of Gazprom Transgaz Saint Petersburg.

Furthermore, Polytechnic University has acquired new reliable partners. We have signed numerous cooperation agreements with industrial companies and other educational institutions in St. Petersburg, Russia, and around the world.

SPbPU became the coordinator of the "Slavic Universities" project and actively collaborated with universities in neighboring countries throughout the year. The universities exchanged experiences and jointly participated in specialized conferences and forums.

In addition, in 2025, Polytechnic University participated in such major events as the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, the St. Petersburg International Gas Forum, the Russian Industrialist forum and exhibition, the Innoprom international industrial exhibition, and many others.

In 2026, we won't slow down! We will confidently move toward our goals, conquer professional heights, and discover uncharted areas. Let every day be a step toward great discoveries, and our ideas the foundation for future breakthroughs.

I hope the coming year brings a bright light of joy, the warmth of happy moments, and an inexhaustible source of inspiration into your life. I wish you to celebrate it surrounded by your dearest ones—family, loyal friends, and like-minded people who will always support you and share in the joy of your victories.

I sincerely wish you a Happy New Year and a bright Christmas! May these days be the beginning of a wonderful journey filled with exciting events, positive changes, and unforgettable impressions.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Polytechnicians are recipients of scholarships from the President and Government of Russia

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The awards ceremony for the winners of the all-Russian program "Russian Scholarship Holder: A Course for the Future" was held in the Northwestern Federal District. Among the 690 laureates from 51 universities were students from Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, who demonstrated outstanding academic achievements. Thirty-one SPbPU students were awarded prestigious state scholarships, one of the most significant achievements among technical universities in the district.

Natalia Pyatinda, Head of the Department for the Implementation of Public Projects at the Office of the Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Northwestern Federal District, opened the ceremony. She emphasized: "A scholarship of such a high level motivates us to continue our research. It encourages us to believe in ourselves and to keep going. The 690 scholarship recipients from 51 universities in the Northwestern Federal District are a significant indicator of your intelligence, hard work, and determination."

The speech by Andrei Maksimov, Chairman of the Committee for Science and Higher Education of St. Petersburg, added a special symbolism to the moment. Congratulating the scholarship recipients on behalf of the Governor, he recalled their great origins: "You have gathered today in St. Petersburg, the cradle of Russian science and professional education. It was here, by decree of Peter the Great on February 8, 1724, that the Academy of Sciences, the university, and the academic gymnasium were founded. This is the beginning of the history of Russian science and professional education. You are the continuers of the great traditions established by Peter the Great, Mikhail Vasilyevich Lomonosov, Dmitry Ivanovich Mendeleyev, and Zhores Ivanovich Alferov. For the students of the university named after the founder of Russian engineering education, these words sound like a direct parting word and a high assessment of their mission."

The success of SPbPU students confirms their high-quality preparation and active research. Based on the results of the competition, effective September 1, 2025, the university awarded scholarships from the President of the Russian Federation to seven students (in the "Mathematical and Natural Sciences" and "Engineering, Technology, and Technical Sciences" competition groups). Twenty-four students received scholarships from the Government of the Russian Federation (in the "Mathematical and Natural Sciences," "Engineering, Technology, and Technical Sciences," and "Social Sciences" competition groups).

"The 31 Presidential and Government scholarships awarded to our students are more than just a number; they are the most impressive award and the best confirmation of SPbPU's exceptional quality. This is a shared victory: the impeccable professionalism of our faculty and the remarkable talent and perseverance of our students. We are especially proud that the majority of awards were won in engineering and technical fields. This speaks volumes about the strength of our Polytechnic School and its key role in Russia's technological breakthrough. "This means we don't just teach—we train engineers who are already building the future of our country," emphasized SPbPU Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs Lyudmila Pankova.

Tatyana Sheptunova accompanied the scholarship recipients at the ceremony: The scholarship is not only significant financial support, but also an honorary sign of recognition at the federal level.

Financial support is intended to stimulate new discoveries in priority areas: IT, biotechnology, energy, and medicine.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

What are the SDGs and how does RUDN University help achieve them?

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peoples'Friendship University of Russia

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Imagine a world where everyone has enough food, clean water, access to education, and decent work. A world where nature is protected and the future of our planet is cared for. These are the Sustainable Development Goals—building a sustainable future for everyone! To this end, the United Nations (UN) identified 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015. The SDGs are a global plan that helps countries and people move together toward a better future. All 193 UN member states have signed up to them.

The goals are: no poverty and hunger, good health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, decent work and economic growth, industrialization, innovation and infrastructure, reduced inequalities, sustainable cities and communities, responsible consumption and production, climate action, life on land and marine ecosystems, peace, justice and strong institutions, and partnerships for sustainable development.

Our university is the leader among all 752 Russian universities in terms of its contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Strategy. In 2024, RUDN University ranked second and was included in the top five universities in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) for sustainable development management, according to a study by the National Rating Agency. In the Times Higher Education Impact global ranking, we are ranked first in Russia for two SDGs: "Quality Education" and "Gender Equality." We are also among the top five universities in the country for nine more SDGs. Furthermore, we were one of seven Russian universities included in the inaugural RAEX Sustainable Development Ranking. Our university was awarded the AA rating, demonstrating a very high level of work in this area.

The greenest

RUDN University takes environmental stewardship seriously. We rightfully rank first among Russian universities and 22nd globally in the UI GreenMetric ranking, earning the title of "greenest." RUDN University was the first in the country to receive accreditation for the verification of carbon reporting, climate projects, and carbon footprints, as well as the validation of climate projects across 27 economic activities. Since 2017, the university has been implementing a project to measure the environmental situation on campus and around the university, monitoring the air, soil, and vegetation year-round.

RUDN University has transitioned to energy-saving technologies. 100% of its buildings have undergone energy audits. The university has implemented measures to reduce heat and water consumption costs, resulting in a 24,000 cubic meter reduction in water consumption in 2024 compared to 2023. The university has also implemented a waste separation system and recycles approximately 3,000 tons of waste annually.

RUDN University staff and students are also making a contribution and actively participating in wastepaper collection. In 2023, over 30 tons of paper were collected, in 2024 – over 37, and in 2025 – approximately 37 tons. This translates to 17-20 saved mature trees and 20,000-50,000 liters of saved water.

In 2025, scientists from the RUDN University Institute of Ecology developed the university's first standard for determining environmental indicators for sustainable development.

Current research

Over the past year, RUDN University researchers have published over 1,930 publications on the SDGs, most of which are on medicine. Over 600 articles are devoted to SDG 3, "Good Health and Well-Being."

For example, the research of the medical institute's scientists—Doctors of Medical Sciences Timur Fatkhudinov and Andrey Elchaninov, and Candidate of Medical Sciences Andrey Makarov—covers cell biology, inflammation, regeneration, and oncogenesis, as well as the development of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in molecular and cellular medicine. The research team has developed a prototype biomedical cell product for immunocellular therapy, aimed at improving the effectiveness of treating socially significant diseases, including cancer. The scientists obtained results in in vitro and in vivo disease models confirming the potential of macrophages in tumor therapy: the resulting native and polarized macrophages can be used both as a therapeutic agent and as an agent for delivering antitumor drugs to the tumor site.

But it's not just research that helps RUDN University achieve SDG-3. The university runs the "Healthy Student, Healthy Employee" program, which provides employees with free health screenings from men's and women's health specialists. And starting this year, they can also take a free course of 10 consultations with a psychologist. This is how the university cares about the health of its students and staff.

Returning to research, another popular area is SDG 2 (zero hunger). RUDN University scientists published 220 publications on this topic in 2024. For example, one study by the Institute of Ecology is devoted to the development of innovative methods in plant growing based on artificial intelligence. The scientists succeeded in developing innovative models that predict plant damage by fungal diseases based on spectral reflectance data and laboratory analysis of leaves. The models are based on machine learning algorithms and can accurately determine the extent of infestation using images obtained from drones or satellites. This approach will allow agronomists to proactively identify disease outbreaks, save time and money, and apply fungicides only where truly necessary. This will reduce environmental impacts and improve production efficiency. Furthermore, the developed technologies can be integrated into smart monitoring systems that integrate satellite data, on-site sensors, and precision farming software solutions.

Quality of education

RUDN University has also made significant progress in achieving SDG 4, "Quality Education." The university offers over 800 educational programs, including those focused on SDG topics such as "Food Security," "Energy and Resource-Saving Processes in Chemical Engineering," "Expertise in Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development," "Discrimination and Gender Issues in Modern International Law," and others.

Our students study 14 languages. Seventy-two programs at the university are taught in English, French, Chinese, and Spanish. Joint master's programs and other projects are being implemented with Sber, Alfa-Bank, X5, and other strategic partners. RUDN University has over 250 cooperation agreements with international universities and research centers, and 176 joint international educational programs. Academic exchanges, internships, and scientific collaborations—the university's international activities are widespread. SDG 4 is also a research focus for RUDN University researchers. Last year, over 120 scientific articles were published on this topic, and over 20 R&D projects were completed.

Digitalization also plays a significant role in ensuring the quality and accessibility of education. RUDN University has a digital preparatory faculty, thanks to which thousands of international students have learned Russian and prepared for admission to Russian universities. Furthermore, the university has its own Multifunctional Center, which provides over 95 services—from dormitory rental agreements to registering international students for migration purposes and visa extensions. The university's mobile app includes essential student features such as student ID cards, personal progress reports, class schedules, and electronic grade books. Faculty also benefit from convenient electronic transcripts and an electronic attendance and grade book.

Over 200 laboratories operate at the university to conduct various experiments, conduct research, and prepare scientific publications. These include a VR lab at the Engineering Academy, where students can work with modern 3D projects in mechanical engineering, architecture, mining, and transportation, as well as prepare and defend their term papers and final theses with visual presentations of their work in a fully immersive virtual environment. Furthermore, over 1,300 companies collaborate with RUDN University on graduate employment opportunities. Students have numerous opportunities to complete internships at public and government organizations, industrial enterprises, and public and private clinics. These opportunities also include preparing final theses on real-world projects and company challenges, with the potential for subsequent employment.

Our university rightfully occupies a vanguard position in the global educational and scientific arena. RUDN's contribution to achieving the SDGs is, without exaggeration, endless. These aren't just words, but real achievements, confirmed by international experts.

Incidentally, it has become a good tradition to hold the International Scientific Conference "For Sustainable Development of Civilization: Cooperation, Science, Education, and Technology" annually in November at RUDN University. The conference serves as a platform for exchanging experiences and developing practical solutions for achieving the SDGs.

The main theme of 2025 is the achievement of 17 sustainable development goals by CIS member states by 2030.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

25 years of the Russian National Anthem

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Official website of the State –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

On December 30, 2000, the new National Anthem of the Russian Federation was officially performed for the first time.

A few days earlier, on December 25, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed the Federal Constitutional Law "On the National Anthem of the Russian Federation" and approved the music, retaining the work of composer Alexander Alexandrov, composed back in 1939 and approved as the anthem of the USSR in 1944 by Joseph Stalin personally.

"We need an anthem with words"

After the collapse of the USSR, a melody based on M. I. Glinka's "Patriotic Song" performed without words was adopted as the anthem of the Russian Federation.

Athletes have repeatedly noted that the inability to sing their country's anthem negatively impacts morale and patriotism. Their concerns were heard in 2000 at a meeting in the Kremlin with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Vladimir Vladimirovich drew public attention to this issue and emphasized that the legislative enshrinement of state symbols (anthem, coat of arms, and flag) should be a priority for the state.

As a result, by the end of 2000, Russia had a new anthem with lyrics by Sergei Mikhalkov, which is known to all residents of the country today.

First performance

On December 30, 2000, the country's leading politicians, prominent businessmen, and representatives of the arts gathered at the Grand Kremlin Palace for a gala reception. The meeting included the first official performance of the country's new anthem by opera and pop stars. Vladimir Putin, who delivered the speech, emphasized the importance of the country entering the new millennium with new state symbols.

Russians heard the new anthem on January 1, 2001, after the New Year's address of the President of Russia.

You can hear the Russian National Anthem performed by GUU students on our official platforms: MAH, VKontakte, and Telegram.

Subscribe to the "Our GUU" Telegram channel. Publication date: December 30, 2025.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Helping those in need: Blood Donor Day at the Polytechnic University

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

A two-day blood drive, "SPbPU Donor Day," was held at the Polytech Tower. The event, organized by the university's Department of Social Programs in collaboration with the City Blood Transfusion Station, collected over 44 liters of donated blood to replenish the city's medical supplies.

Students and university staff who met standard medical requirements for donors participated. As usual, volunteers from the Polytechnic University's student teams played an active role in organizing and supporting the event. They registered participants and provided assistance throughout all stages of the event.

133 people participated in the event, 99 of whom successfully donated blood. This allowed them to collect 44.55 liters of blood, as each donor can donate 450 milliliters. Representatives from all SPbPU institutes participated, demonstrating the high level of social responsibility of the Polytechnic University.

Medical specialists ensured full compliance with blood collection procedures and safety requirements. All interested participants were able to pre-register through the university's website or the official social media page.

SPbPU Blood Donor Day brings together people willing to help others. We see how one act of kindness inspires others, building a community of caring individuals. During the event, you especially feel the kindness around you and realize how many people are willing to take a step toward helping others. Over time, you become involved in the process and begin to see donation as an important and necessary part of life. Not only does it help build a vital blood supply for those in need, but it's also beneficial for the donors themselves in terms of health. And you're left with a warm and pleasant feeling from the act—only positive things, noted Diana Grigorieva, director of the event at the Polytech Tower.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Financial News: Investors will be able to receive income on Belarusian Eurobonds through Russian infrastructure.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Central Bank of Russia

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

In 2026, holders of the Republic of Belarus's Eurobonds will be able to receive coupon income and present their securities for redemption. The Bank of Russia has extended the term such a mechanism.

In addition, Eurobonds can be replaced by government securities of the Republic of Belarus.

Also is preservedThe ability to receive payments on Eurobonds of the Development Bank of the Republic of Belarus (ISIN XS1904731129 or US25161EАА91) through the Russian infrastructure. Investors will be able to redeem them if necessary.

Thanks to these measures, payments on securities and the replacement of Eurobonds will take place without going through foreign accounting institutions.

Preview photo: cetin34 / Shutterstock / Fotodom

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Paper parachute: The Ministry of Transport has specified when railways can release electronic consignment notes.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: KMZ Cargo – KMZ CARGO –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The Ministry of Transport's order legalizes paper document flow in four critical scenarios.

The Ministry has approved a list of situations in which the mandatory electronic railway consignment note (ETRN) may be replaced with a paper document. The corresponding order defines four such cases. The document will be in effect until September 1, 2032.

According to the new regulations, a paper consignment note is required for transportation in areas where special legal regimes apply. These include areas where a state of high alert, a state of emergency, martial law, or a counter-terrorism operation has been declared. A paper document is also mandatory for military rail transportation.

Furthermore, the order provides for a derogation from the electronic format in the event of force majeure. If the shipper or carrier lacks the technical capability to generate or receive the electronic form of transport via the internet for this reason, a paper copy is used. This applies to situations where the failure is not the fault of the party involved in the transportation process, but rather due to external force majeure.

As a reminder, according to SberKorus, the number of electronic transport documents (ETD) in Russia has almost doubled by 2025. LR

Read more:http://logirus.ru/nevs/transport/paper_parachute_mintrans_registered_when_the_railway_can_reset_electronic_waybills.html

Publication date: 12/30/2025

Please note; this information is raw content obtained directly from the information source. It is an accurate account of what the source claims, and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.