Japan has announced it will increase naval activity in the contested South China Sea by undertaking joint patrols with the US, and by carrying out exercises with other regional navies. The Japanese Defence Minister said his country was considering building up the capability of other coastal states in the region, including Vietnam and the Philippines - which are both at odds with Beijing over territorial issues in the South China Sea.

European Union leaders meet in Slovakia today. This will be the first summit not attended by Britain, following its decision to leave the EU.

Russia votes Sunday in national parliamentary and regional elections. Parties loyal to President Vladimir Putin are expected to remain dominant. We test the waters in the Archangelsk region of northern Russia.