Russia-India Rail Plan: Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin says Moscow should explore a direct rail link to the Indian Ocean, with possible corridors through Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan to reduce exposure to the Bosphorus and Strait of Hormuz disruptions. Diplomacy & Trade Corridors: The idea is framed as an overland freight alternative as maritime risks rise, but no timeline or project details were confirmed. Turkmen Education & Youth: Turkmen schoolchildren won 10 awards (6 gold, 4 silver) at the “IWISE Global Final London 2026,” competing in robotics events. UNICEF in Ashgabat: UNICEF and Turkmenistan’s education and civil defence bodies expanded the Green School Programme to 100 new schools, while also running training on protection in emergencies for frontline responders. Inclusive Schooling: A UNICEF-supported mission reviewed progress on inclusive education and next steps for expanding support for children with disabilities and learning needs. US-Turkmen Talks: Turkmenistan’s deputy foreign minister met the US chargé d’affaires to discuss cooperation in the UN and humanitarian, education and sports exchanges.