On October 21, 2025, Russia successfully tested its nuclear-powered cruise missile, the Burevestnik (SSC-X-9 Skyfall, as NATO calls it). The missile is reportedly “invincible,” capable of penetrating current and future missile defense systems, with near-unlimited range and unpredictable flight paths.

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated in a meeting with military leaders that the test marked the completion of a “critical trial” and instructed the military to begin preparing infrastructure for deployment. Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov reported that the missile flew 14,000 km during testing and remained airborne for approximately 15 hours.

Putin said the Burevestnik is a response to the U.S. withdrawal from the 1972 Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty and the establishment of missile defense systems, emphasizing the weapon’s uniqueness and claiming, “No one in the world possesses such a weapon.”

The test occurred amid tense relations between Russia and Western countries, especially ahead of a meeting with U.S. President Trump. The move is seen as a strong military signal from Russia to the West, highlighting its position in global military competition. The U.S. White House has not yet commented on the test.

On October 20, 2025, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese arrived in Washington to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss the AUKUS defense agreement, key mineral cooperation, and trade matters.

Albanese emphasized that AUKUS represents an important strategic investment for Australia, aiming to strengthen defense cooperation with the U.S. and U.K., and promote the extraction and refinement of critical minerals to support defense and technology industries.

Former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd highlighted at a defense reception that AUKUS benefits Australian industry and enhances Australia’s position in the global strategic landscape.

The meeting also raised concerns about the responsibilities and costs Australia bears under AUKUS. While the U.S. has urged Australia to raise defense spending to 3.5% of GDP, Albanese stated that Australia will allocate defense resources according to its own needs.

On October 20, 2025, the Louvre Museum in Paris experienced a daytime jewelry heist. Four thieves entered the Apollo Gallery at around 9:30 a.m., using a riverside crane to access the display of French royal crown jewels. They forced open a window, cut through glass using a disc cutter, and stole the items in six to seven minutes.

One thief wore a yellow high-visibility vest, posing as a construction worker. Although security arrived quickly, the thieves escaped, attempting to set fire to the crane unsuccessfully. The stolen items included nine historical treasures, eight of which were taken, belonging to Napoleon Bonaparte, Napoleon III, and their consorts Marie Louise and Eugénie.

Paris prosecutors have launched an investigation and called for public assistance in identifying the thieves and their methods.