Ukraine Diplomacy Resumes as Iran Talks Ease Middle East Tensions

Zelenskyy returned to the Oval Office as Trump shifted toward backing Kyiv, while Iran's calls with Saudi Arabia and Oman over the Strait of Hormuz fed hopes of lasting de-escalation.

July 28, 2026 Geopolitics

Ukraine Diplomacy Resumes

Zelenskyy returned to the Oval Office as Trump shifted his stance toward Ukraine, with Kyiv hoping the White House talks will translate improved relations with Washington into fresh backing against Russia.

Middle East Tensions Ease, But Ripple Effects Linger

Iran's foreign ministry held calls with Saudi Arabia and Oman over the Strait of Hormuz, with Trump hailing 'good talks.' Oil extended its slide as a pause in U.S.-Iran hostilities raised hopes of lasting de-escalation. Even so, the Middle East crisis has caused shelf gaps in the UK.

Sources

Zelenskyy returns to Oval Office as Trump shifts towards Ukraine (ft)
Iran hosts Hormuz calls with Saudi Arabia, Oman as Trump hails ‘good talks’ (cnbc)
Oil extends losses as a pause in U.S.-Iran hostilities raises de-escalation hopes (cnbc)
Oil extends slide as U.S.-Iran talks raise hopes of lasting de-escalation (investing_com)
Middle East crisis causes shelf gaps in the UK (yahoo_finance)

Not investment advice.