December 11, 2025 – International Mountain Day

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Ecology Foundation

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International Mountain Day

December 11, 2025

Mountains live their own unique lives. In the mornings, they appear as sleepy blue giants, in the evening they are filled with golden light, and after a snowfall, they look as if nature has covered them with a soft, downy blanket. They seem unchanged for ages, but in reality, mountain ecosystems are extremely fragile. This combination of delicacy and power makes them especially astonishing.

Mountains give us much more than we usually realize. Nine of the world's 10 largest rivers originate in high-altitude regions, which then feed vast territories and become a source of life for millions of people. According to various estimates, 60 to 80% of all fresh water on the planet is found in mountains—in glaciers and mountain rivers.

How each of us can support mountain ecosystems:

Choose eco-friendly tourist routes; do not leave litter in the mountains and on trails; support river projects; and spread information about the fragility of mountain regions.

Today we've put together a selection of beautiful mountain photos for you. Scroll through and immerse yourself in the tranquility.

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The Ministry of Education and Science recognized the Polytechnic University for its high professionalism in the media sphere.

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Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

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The Russian Ministry of Science and Higher Education held a seminar-meeting in Moscow with its subordinate universities, where the results of the year's work were summarized and plans for the next year were outlined.

At a session dedicated to best media practices in Russian universities, Marianna Dyakova, Head of the SPbPU Public Relations Department, presented a joint project with the Ministry of Education and Science video project "PRO-Rector". It was launched in April and 12 issues have been prepared.

At the conclusion of the seminar-meeting, an awards ceremony was held for media organizations that distinguished themselves with productive work during the past year. Polytechnic University received a letter of gratitude from the Minister of Science and Higher Education, Valery Falkov, for their high professionalism in covering the scientific and educational agenda.

“We are grateful to the Ministry of Science and Higher Education for its informational support throughout the year and for the opportunity to implement additional projects this year,” commented Marianna Dyakova. “Of the university’s current media activities, it is the outstanding, large-scale, systemic projects such as Vice-Rector, "Dynasty", a joint project with the State Hermitage Museum Formula of Art, exhibitions at Pulkovo Airport, special projects with major federal and regional media outlets. They are what take Polytechnic to the next level and make it even more visible in the media landscape."

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The EU's proposal for territorial concessions to Ukraine has been sent to the US, according to the German Chancellor.

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Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –

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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News

Berlin, December 11 (Xinhua) — German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced Thursday that European leaders have submitted a proposal to US President Donald Trump regarding territorial concessions Ukraine is willing to make. Future meetings to discuss the matter are expected.

Speaking to reporters alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Merz said the proposal followed a telephone conversation the previous day with French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

According to the German Chancellor, they made it clear to D. Trump that the question of territorial concessions to Ukraine must first be answered by the Ukrainian president and the Ukrainian people.

Further talks with the US government are planned for this weekend, and a meeting in Berlin may take place early next week, Merz added.

“Whether the American government will participate depends largely on the joint preparation of documents that are currently being worked on,” he said.

F. Merz emphasized that any agreed decision must protect the interests of European security and should not be detrimental to the unity of the European Union and NATO. –0–

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A magnitude 5.0 earthquake struck the Xizang Autonomous Region, according to the China Earthquake Networks Center.

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Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –

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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News

BEIJING, December 11 (Xinhua) — A magnitude 5.0 earthquake jolted Shuanghu County, Nagchu City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region at 7:59 p.m. Beijing time on Thursday, the China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC) reported.

According to CENC, the epicenter of the tremors was located at 32.95 degrees north latitude and 88.65 degrees east longitude. The hypocenter was located at a depth of 10 kilometers.

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Russia and the United States have reached an understanding on Ukraine's neutral and non-aligned status, according to the Russian Foreign Minister.

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Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –

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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News

Moscow, December 11 (Xinhua) — Russia and the United States have reached an understanding on Ukraine, concerning Kyiv's neutral, non-aligned, and non-nuclear status. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced this during an ambassadorial roundtable on the Ukrainian settlement.

"When President [US President Donald] Trump's Special Representative, Stephen Witkoff, was here, following his meeting with President [Russian President Vladimir] Putin, both sides, Russian and American, confirmed the mutual understandings reached in Alaska… The meaning of these understandings is that Ukraine must return to the non-aligned, neutral, non-nuclear foundations of its statehood," Lavrov pointed out, adding that all possible misunderstandings and misunderstandings had been resolved in the negotiations with the US on Ukraine.

"We insist that a package of agreements be reached on a strong, sustainable, and long-term peace with security guarantees for all countries involved," the Russian Foreign Minister emphasized. He stated that Russia is ready to continue working with the American side.

S. Lavrov reported that Russia has submitted additional proposals to the United States “concerning collective security guarantees” and is prepared to record in writing the absence of aggressive plans against NATO countries and the European Union “on a collective, mutual basis.”

According to the minister, Russia is awaiting information on the outcome of contacts between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the Europeans, and the Trump administration. –0–

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How a Colombian wins hearts through Russian language and traditions

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Source: Peoples'Friendship University of Russia

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Ojeda Amaya Deibi, a postgraduate student and assistant in the Department of Human Ecology and Bioelementology at the Institute of Ecology at RUDN University, won the All-Russian "Flagships of Education" competition, part of the "Russia – Land of Opportunities" platform. In the "Culture" track, he was among the top 40 educators and administrators from 27 regions of the country.

For the Colombian, this victory is not just a personal achievement, but a launchpad for a unique project that unites two cultures and helps international students find their place in Russia. We spoke with the graduate student and learned how the magic of Marquez and Bulgakov helps foreigners adapt to our country and why it's impossible to learn a language without culture.

The "Flagships of Education" competition brought together the best. What does winning the "Culture" track mean to you?

This is an event I want not only to document, but to preserve. The "Culture" track is for those who believe that art, traditions, and values can inspire learning. Participating was a serious professional challenge, but here I met colleagues from all over the country with whom we speak the same language—the language of a love of education. For me, this victory is the start of new projects. And, as I always say, it's impossible to fully understand Russian culture without speaking Russian!

What sparked your belief in the power of culture? Was there a special teacher or event?

As a child, I was deeply inspired by the works of Gabriel García Márquez—One Hundred Years of Solitude and Nobody Writes to the Colonel. Through them, I first felt the power of my native culture. And when I came to Russia almost seven years ago (I'm now studying and working at RUDN University), I realized a key thing: to adapt and learn the language, you need to understand the country's traditions and culture. I was captivated by Bulgakov's The Master and Margarita, Pushkin's The Queen of Spades, and the films Operation Y and Moscow Does Not Believe in Tears. This was my cultural gateway to Russia.

You worked on your own project at the competition. What was it about?

The project is called "Open Colombia and Russia." It's an initiative to promote cultural adaptation for international students arriving in Russia to study. We create a space for dialogue where, through an understanding of traditions, language, and values, students can more quickly overcome cultural shock and begin to feel a part of Russian society. It's a bridge of mutual understanding.

You called the victory "the start of a new phase." What specific steps are you planning?

The victory opened new horizons. I'm already being invited as a lecturer not only at the regional but also at the federal level: to the Moscow Longevity program, to the M.I. Rudomino Library of Foreign Literature, and, of course, to RUDN University, as well as to other universities. Being a winner gives me the opportunity to be a project ambassador and participate in key educational and cultural events. I plan to actively share this experience with my RUDN University students and colleagues to implement best practices in cultural education at our university.

Ojeda Amaya's victory is a shining example of how RUDN University's values (internationalism, cultural integration, and high-quality education) are embodied in the successes of our employees.

The Institute of Ecology congratulates its colleague and looks forward to seeing his projects implemented within the university!

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The Digital GTO test was taken at St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering.

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Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering –

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Opening of the competition. In the presidium (from left to right) are Andrey Nikulin, Ilya Gladushevsky, and Dmitry Ulrikh.

The St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering held a test as part of the "Digital GTO" project. Participants—high school and college students—were required to answer 100 questions on construction, design, and 3D modeling in one hour. A score of 75 or higher earns five additional points toward their Unified State Exam score. The university will hold a ceremony in the spring, where the winners will receive personalized certificates.

The "Digital GTO" is an interactive test within the "I am the Builder of the Future!" career guidance project of the Public Council under the Ministry of Construction of Russia. It is implemented with the support of industry associations and construction companies. The "Digital GTO" is designed to help prospective students determine their level of digital competencies in the construction industry. The project's goal is to expand admission opportunities, promote the training of in-demand professionals, and address the engineering skills shortage.

Welcoming the participants, Andrey Nikulin, Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering, noted that digitalization in the construction industry is rapidly developing, and modern engineers need to combine fundamental professional training with digital skills: "Your desire to master digital technologies is absolutely correct and promising. Today, construction companies are increasingly seeking specialists capable of working with digital products. Employers say it's easier to teach a civil engineer IT than vice versa. Therefore, competitions like these open up additional opportunities."

Dmitry Ulrikh, Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Engineering and Urban Management, emphasized the importance of participating in such projects for building applicants' portfolios: "Getting five points higher on your Unified State Exam score is a significant advantage. Sometimes, even half a point can decide the outcome of an admissions campaign. Accumulate your achievements—this is your foundation for your future profession. I really hope to see you among our university's students!"

Admissions Committee Secretary Ilya Gladushevsky wished all participants confidence and a desire to learn new things: "Every step you take today brings you, future applicants, closer to a successful professional career. The university has opened its doors for you, and now the most important thing is to boldly follow your digital path."

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Summing up and election of the Chairman: GUU at the meeting of the Coordinating Council of the ESU

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Source: Official website of the State –

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On December 11, representatives of the State University of Management spoke at the 13th meeting of the Coordinating Council of the scientific and educational consortium "Eurasian Network University" (ENU), which was held in a mixed format at the National Research University "MPEI".

The event brought together heads of leading universities and experts from countries of the Eurasian Economic Union to review the year's results and identify prospects for further cooperation.

Key figures in Eurasian integration participated in the council's work, including Alexey Vedev, Director of the Macroeconomic Policy Department of the Eurasian Economic Commission, and his deputy, Kanybek Azhekbarov. Also present in person were Vladimir Stroyev, Rector of the State University of Management; Mikhail Shvetsov, Rector of the Mari State University; Igor Alekseyev, Rector of the V.N. Tatishchev Astrakhan State University; and other representatives of the academic community.

The meeting was opened by Nikolai Rogalev, Chairman of the ESU Coordinating Council and Rector of the National Research University "MPEI," who noted the impressive growth momentum of the alliance: seven new universities joined the alliance this year, bringing the total number of members to 41.

The central element of the agenda was a detailed report by the head of the ESU Secretariat, Vice-Rector of the State University of Management, Dmitry Bryukhanov, on the results of the consortium's activities in 2025.

"This year has been eventful. Three meetings of the Coordinating Council and five working group meetings were held, six joint continuing professional education programs were developed and launched, with 196 students from EAEU countries already enrolled. Research and development activities have been actively developed, and two new specialized centers were established: the Center for Digital Energy and Engineering at MPEI and the Center for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics at MSTU STANKIN. The second ESU Olympiad for applicants to master's programs was a success, with 40 winners and runners-up, including from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus, and Armenia," said Dmitry Yuryevich.

The SUMU Vice-Rector noted that educational initiatives were an important component: the Summer School at the M. Ryskulbekov Kyrgyz University of Economics, the Winter School on Marketing at the State University of Management, and an internship for faculty with in-person modules at the Eurasian Economic Commission and the O.E. Kutafin Moscow State Law University (MSAL).

Council members discussed the results of the 3rd ESU Forum in Osh, which brought together 264 participants, a series of three scientific and educational exhibitions in Yekaterinburg, Bishkek, and Osh, and three international scientific and practical conferences.

"A significant event in 2025 was the ESU consortium's victory in the prestigious "Symbols of Eurasian Integration" competition, organized by the Agency for Strategic Initiatives. The Eurasian Network University was awarded first place in the "Human Capital" category, recognizing its contribution to training personnel for the Eurasian space," Dmitry Bryukhanov concluded his report.

The agenda continued with presentations by Irina Shkolyar, Director of International Cooperation at the Russian Foreign Trade Academy, on the results of the "Art of Negotiation" Negotiation Marathon, and Arapbaev Nurmamatovich, Vice-Rector for Research at Osh State University, who presented a report on the establishment of the "Center for Innovative Technologies of the Eurasian Economic Union" at Osh State University. Following the discussion, the participants unanimously approved the Regulations on the new structural unit of the Eurasian Economic Union.

An important organizational outcome of the meeting was the election of the Chairman of the Coordination Council for 2026. At the suggestion of several consortium member universities, Kudaiberdi Kojobekov, Rector of Osh State University, was elected to this position.

"For three years in a row, the Coordinating Council was chaired by university rectors from Russia, so it's the right step to entrust its leadership to our comrade and colleague from another country. I'm confident he will be up to the task. In conclusion, I'd like to express my gratitude to the Ministry of Education and Science, Rossotrudnichestvo, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and all the organizations that supported the ESU this year," concluded Vladimir Stroyev.

As a reminder, in 2022, the State University of Management was one of the initiators of the creation of the scientific and educational consortium "Eurasian Network University," and since then, the secretariat of the association has been permanently located at the State University of Management.

Subscribe to the "Our GUU" Telegram channel. Publication date: December 11, 2025.

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Two people died as a result of an emergency at a university laboratory in Perm.

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Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –

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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News

Moscow, December 11 (Xinhua) – A man and a child died on Thursday in a laboratory accident at Perm National Research Polytechnic University, the TASS news agency reported.

According to law enforcement, a hydrodynamic test rig in a laboratory located in the aerospace faculty building depressurized. A man and an 8-year-old girl were killed, and three others were injured.

Investigators and forensic experts are working at the scene of the crime. –0–

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More than 440 tons of jet fuel were exported from Xinjiang to Kazakhstan.

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Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –

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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News

URUMQI, Dec. 11 (Xinhua) — Dushanzi Petrochemical Company of China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), located in Karamay city of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (northwest China), on Wednesday shipped over 440 tons of jet fuel to Kazakhstan in 17 tanker trucks, marking the first time Chinese refineries exported jet fuel to Kazakhstan.

Furthermore, this was the first delivery of an order of 1,000 tons of aviation kerosene, which is a key step in meeting Kazakhstan's market demand for this type of fuel.

The Kazakhstan branch of PetroChina International Co., Ltd., a partner of the above-mentioned exporter, noted that this is a new result of energy cooperation between China and Kazakhstan.

Due to its geographical proximity to Kazakhstan, CNPC's Dushanzi Petrochemical Company will continue to cooperate with the Kazakh side in importing oil and gas resources, as well as exporting processed oil and chemical products. -0-

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