Russia-ASEAN Summit: President Vladimir Putin is hosting ASEAN leaders in Kazan for a two-day summit marking 35 years of ties, with talks expected to focus on trade, investment, energy and industrial cooperation, including bilateral meetings involving Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah. Brunei in the spotlight: Putin specifically met the Sultan during the summit period, underscoring Brunei’s role in the bloc’s engagement with Russia. Energy and fuel pressure: Malaysia’s economy minister said the global fuel crisis could create opportunities for ASEAN, while Japan reported a May trade deficit as Middle East oil imports fell sharply amid disruption linked to the Iran conflict. Shell leadership change (Brunei-linked): Shell named Elohor Aiboni—currently an asset director at Brunei Shell Petroleum—as Nigeria’s new Executive Vice President and Country Chair, effective Aug 1, 2026. Environment: A study says Cyclone Senyar in Indonesia killed nearly 60 of the world’s remaining Tapanuli orangutans, pushing the critically endangered species closer to extinction. Food security angle: ASEAN leaders discussed “collective resilience” as the region faces energy and fertiliser pressures affecting food supply.