Rail & Logistics: Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin says Moscow should explore a direct rail link to the Indian Ocean to cut exposure to the Strait of Hormuz and the Bosphorus, with possible corridors via Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan—and any route reaching India would be “acceptable.” Energy Security Spillover: A separate report warns Central Asia’s fuel safety net is weakening as Russia’s refining disruptions tighten supplies, pushing countries to seek alternatives including Turkmenistan. Trade & Transit Talks: Afghanistan’s Chamber of Commerce and Investment met Turkmen counterparts to expand trade and propose a new transit route from Türkmenabat (Charjow) to northern Afghanistan and Mazar-i-Sharif, with an invitation for Turkmenistan to send a business delegation to Kabul. Water Management: Central Asian states approved steps to automate Syrdarya water accounting for the 2026 growing season, setting up a working group by September. Skills & Industry Capacity: Turkmenistan sent energy and gas specialists to Germany for training on renewables efficiency, methane cuts, and AI in industry under an EU/GIZ climate project. Agri-Production: Lebap velayat is ramping up cotton preparations for the harvest, with receiving stations and ginning enterprises readied for the new crop.