Newsflash

2025-05-25

Russo-Ukrainian war, day 1186: Russia fires 9 ballistic missiles at Kyiv — while doing “peace” prisoner swap with Ukraine

Rank: 85

Summary of Recent Developments in the Ukraine Conflict

The ongoing war in Ukraine has seen intensified Russian attacks, with Kyiv suffering significant damage as civilian homes were destroyed or set ablaze during a massive strike. Meanwhile, analysts suggest that depleted Russian forces near Kharkiv may be preparing for a limited summer offensive, while strategic rail hubs like Kupiansk have been reduced to ruins, displacing nearly all civilians. Russia’s strategy of relentless drone and artillery strikes aims to create a "buffer zone," but Ukraine continues to counter with dynamic mobile operations, including devastating drone strikes on Russian supply lines and motorized assaults in Donetsk Oblast.

Ukraine has also escalated its drone campaign, targeting a Russian factory producing batteries for missiles and bombs, disrupting critical military supply chains. As of May 24, 2025, Russian losses since the invasion include nearly one million personnel, over 10,000 tanks, and thousands of armored vehicles, aircraft, and drones. On the technological front, Europe’s inability to meet Ukraine’s weapons demands has led to increased reliance on American arms, while Ukraine’s new Varta 2 armored vehicle has been cleared for mass production to bolster frontline defenses.

Internationally, Ukraine seeks U.S. involvement in peace talks, despite Russia’s attempts to exclude Washington. The humanitarian toll remains severe, with reports of a Kyiv resident attempting suicide during a record missile strike and evidence of Russian forces executing over 150 Ukrainian POWs as part of a systematic policy. The conflict’s brutality persists, with both sides adapting strategies amid escalating losses and geopolitical tensions. 💔🔥

Sky News: What’s left of Russia’s Kursk army is staring down Kharkiv

Rank: 85

Russian Forces Position Near Kharkiv, Raising Concerns Over Potential Offensive

After retaking parts of Russia’s Kursk Oblast from Ukrainian forces, remnants of a 50,000-strong Russian military contingent have now positioned themselves near the border with Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city. This movement has heightened concerns among Ukrainian officials and analysts, who warn it may signal preparations for a new phase in Russia’s summer offensive. Kharkiv, located just 20 miles from Russia, holds both strategic and symbolic significance—earning "Hero City" status for its resilience during the early months of the 2022 invasion.

Ukrainian military leaders confirm the buildup, with Andriy Pomahaibus, Chief of Staff of the 13th Operational Brigade, stating that Russia is attempting to reposition troops for assault actions, though these efforts have so far been unsuccessful. Analysts suggest elite Russian VDV airborne units, previously engaged in Kursk, may still be near Kharkiv, raising questions about Moscow’s next moves. If these forces remain rather than redeploying to other hotspots like Pokrovsk, it could indicate plans for further operations in the region.

Russia faces a critical four-month window to advance before autumn weather and dwindling Soviet-era equipment reserves hinder its efforts. Experts note that only 25% of Russia’s armor now comes from new production, limiting its ability to sustain prolonged offensives. Instead of a large-scale assault, Russia is expected to adopt a gradual escalation strategy, increasing attacks across broader frontline areas to probe Ukrainian defenses.

While Kharkiv and nearby Sumy remain potential targets, resource constraints may prevent a full-scale offensive. Analysts describe the current situation as a "battle of attrition," with both sides depleting reserves in ongoing clashes. Kharkiv’s strong defenses and symbolic importance make it a high-value objective, but its proximity to the border leaves it vulnerable if Russia intensifies its campaign. As the summer window narrows, military observers are closely monitoring developments in the region. 🔍💥

Russia levels strategic Ukrainian rail hub near Kharkiv as Putin pushes “buffer zone” plan

Rank: 85

Kupiansk Under Siege: A City on the Brink Amid Escalating Russian Assaults

The eastern Ukrainian city of Kupiansk in Kharkiv Oblast faces catastrophic destruction, with 90% of its infrastructure damaged or destroyed due to relentless Russian attacks. Local authorities report that Russian forces are targeting central areas with glide bombs (KABs), artillery, multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS), and FPV drones, creating a "critical" situation. On 23 May, two municipal workers were killed in a combined KAB and Uragan MLRS strike, highlighting the growing danger to the remaining civilians. Once home to 55,000 people, fewer than 1,700 residents now remain, with officials urging immediate evacuation. The city’s elevated terrain near the Oskil River, marked by wide floodplains, leaves it highly vulnerable to air and artillery strikes.

Kupiansk’s strategic importance lies in its role as a key transportation and logistics hub, serving as the second-largest railway junction in Kharkiv Oblast. Five major rail lines converge here, connecting northern routes to Russia (Belgorod, Valuyki), southeastern paths to Russian-occupied territories (Svatove, Rubizhne, Popasna), and southwestern links to liberated areas like Sviatohirsk. Control of Kupiansk provides Russian forces a stable base for logistics, storage, and troop deployment, far more secure than operating from open terrain. It also serves as a potential launch point for deeper offensives into Ukrainian territory.

A flashpoint of the war, Kupiansk has seen shifting control—captured early in Russia’s full-scale invasion, liberated in September 2022 during Ukraine’s Kharkiv counteroffensive, and now under renewed Russian pressure. Today, it remains a defensive stronghold for Ukraine and a potential staging ground for future counterattacks into occupied Luhansk Oblast, particularly toward Svatove and Kreminna.

The intensified assault coincides with Russian President Vladimir Putin’s announcement on 22 May of plans to create a “security buffer zone” along the Ukrainian border. Putin stated that Russian forces are actively establishing this zone, following calls from regional officials in Kursk Oblast for stronger border measures. Pavel Zolotariov, head of the Glushkovo district, even suggested seizing “at least the city of Sumy,” hinting at further expansionist ambitions. As Kupiansk endures relentless attacks, its fate remains a pivotal factor in the broader conflict. 💥🔥

The Telegraph: Putin’s new “chokehold” war strategy is working—but so is Ukraine’s dynamic counterpunch

Rank: 85

Russia’s “Triple Chokehold” Strategy in Ukraine: A War of Exhaustion

Russia has intensified its military campaign in Ukraine with a coordinated “triple chokehold” strategy, designed to wear down Ukrainian defenses through relentless pressure on multiple fronts. This three-pronged approach—combining ground assaults, drone warfare, and long-range precision strikes—has become a defining feature of Russian operations in recent months.

Ground Assaults: Relentless Pressure The first component involves continuous infantry attacks, forcing Ukrainian troops into static defensive positions. These relentless offensives, occurring as frequently as every two hours in key sectors like Pokrovsk, are draining manpower and resources. Ukrainian forces describe this as a “war of exhaustion,” where constant pressure depletes their ability to hold ground effectively.

Drones: Surveillance and Mine Warfare The second prong leverages drone technology to restrict Ukrainian mobility. Russian forces deploy first-person view (FPV) drones for real-time reconnaissance and mine-laying missions, cutting off potential escape routes. This forces Ukraine to maintain fixed defensive lines, limiting their tactical flexibility.

Glide Bombs: Long-Range Precision Strikes The third element targets rear defensive lines using retrofitted Soviet-era glide bombs, equipped with wings and GPS systems. These weapons strike from a distance, making fortified positions increasingly vulnerable. Russia plans to produce around 75,000 glide bombs in 2025—averaging 205 per day—significantly enhancing its ability to sustain pressure.

Ukraine’s Adaptive Defense In response, Ukraine has shifted toward a dynamic defense strategy, emphasizing constant repositioning and mobility. Ukrainian forces have also ramped up production of FPV drones to counter Russia’s technological edge, demonstrating innovation in countering various Russian tactics.

Strategic Impasse Despite Gains While Russia has made territorial gains—capturing nearly 1,500 square miles in 2024—experts caution that strategic limitations persist. High casualties, training deficits, and equipment shortages continue to plague Russian forces, with losses reportedly exceeding 1,000 soldiers per day. Many frontline troops are poorly trained conscripts, further undermining Russia’s ability to deliver a decisive blow.

Despite the challenges, Ukraine remains resilient, adapting its tactics to mitigate Russia’s relentless pressure. The conflict continues to evolve, with both sides locked in a grueling battle of attrition. 🔥💥

Russia’s anti-drone cloaks are useless—and troops keep sticking their heads out

Rank: 85

Russian Thermal Camouflage Fails, Exposing Troops to Ukrainian Drones

Russian troops are facing increased vulnerability due to defective thermal camouflage gear, which is inadvertently making them more visible to Ukrainian drones instead of concealing them. Specialized coats and blankets designed to mask body heat from thermal and night vision sensors are failing, creating cold spots that stand out against warmer terrain. Military experts, including former British Army colonel Hamish de Bretton-Gordon, highlight that the flawed technology and poor training turn the equipment into a liability, making soldiers easier to detect.

Recent battlefield footage from the Lyman direction shows Russian troops clearly visible despite wearing thermal camouflage, leading to successful Ukrainian drone strikes. Ukraine’s 63rd Mechanised Brigade mocked the ineffective gear, calling it a false sense of security. The issue is compounded by inadequate training, as Russian soldiers often leave limbs or heads exposed, rendering even functional thermal blankets useless.

In contrast, Ukrainian forces have deployed advanced camouflage suits—weighing 2.5 kg and made of layered polymers, microfibers, and metal-particle fabrics—to far greater effect. Deputy Defense Minister Vitalii Polovenko emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to reliable concealment. Meanwhile, Russian thermal suits, some sold online for as little as $47, raise concerns about quality and effectiveness.

The failures highlight a broader shift in modern warfare, where Ukrainian drones leverage thermal imaging and real-time targeting for precise nighttime strikes. As thermal camera technology improves and becomes more affordable, the gap between Russian and Ukrainian capabilities widens. Experts warn that full-body coverage is essential for concealment, underscoring the challenges of evading detection on today’s battlefield. 🎯🔥

Russian forces executed over 150 POWs from Ukraine intelligence units as part of systematic policy

Rank: 85

Summary of Documented War Crimes Against Ukrainian Prisoners of War

Ukrainian military intelligence has documented over 150 cases of captured Ukrainian soldiers—particularly from special units—being executed by Russian forces. Evidence suggests these killings were carried out under direct orders to eliminate prisoners rather than take them captive, indicating a systematic policy sanctioned by Russian state leadership. The Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine’s Defense Ministry has transferred all collected evidence to Ukrainian law enforcement for further investigation.

International observers, including the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, have corroborated these findings. In a March 2025 report, the UN noted an alarming increase in incidents where Russian forces deliberately killed or harmed Ukrainian fighters attempting to surrender. Testimonies from Russian deserters confirmed explicit orders against taking prisoners, with one quoting a deputy brigade commander as saying, “Prisoners are not needed—shoot them on the spot.”

Dr. Morris Tidball-Binz, the UN Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial executions, emphasized that the scale and frequency of these incidents suggest high-level authorization, stating that such actions would not occur without approval—or at least consent—from Russia’s highest military command, implicating the presidency. CNN obtained intercepted Russian radio transmissions and drone footage showing Russian soldiers executing surrendering Ukrainian troops in Zaporizhzhia Oblast in November 2024, with audio revealing a commander issuing kill orders six times over 26 minutes. Ukraine’s Security Service identified the Russian Shtorm unit as responsible, citing motives such as avoiding the logistical burden of POWs and instilling terror.

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reported that prominent Russian military bloggers openly praise and justify these executions, glorifying brutality and systemic violations of the Geneva Convention. This widespread endorsement risks normalizing war crimes and deepening a culture of impunity within Russian forces. The most recent documented incident occurred on 22 May near Udachne in Pokrovsk district, where two Ukrainian soldiers were captured and shot during a Russian assault. Additionally, a captured Russian marine revealed that commanders ordered the execution and beheading of Ukrainian POWs near Glushkovo in September 2024, providing names of those involved.

The international community has raised concerns over the escalating brutality, with Ukrainian Ombudsman Lubinets criticizing the silence of global organizations on these atrocities. The UN has warned of an “alarming rise” in such executions, while intercepted communications further suggest a systematic pattern of targeting surrendering Ukrainian troops.

The Ukraine ceasefire fantasy is over. Britain knows it.

Rank: 85

# Key Insights from the Ditchley Foundation Conference on Ukraine’s War and Future Defense

This past weekend, the Ditchley Foundation Conference convened senior officials from governments, international organizations, media, and civil society across the EU, US, and NATO at Ditchley Park—a historic English estate once used by Winston Churchill for wartime strategic planning. Today, it remains a hub for high-level security discussions.

No Hope for a Ceasefire

Unlike public optimism about a potential ceasefire, no participants believed Putin would agree to a just peace. The focus instead was on Russia’s endurance versus Ukraine’s resilience. Skepticism also surrounded Donald Trump’s potential future actions, with little expectation of decisive US sanctions or military aid. Europe’s ability to support Ukraine without US backing—especially in nuclear deterrence and air defense—was deemed impossible, reinforcing America’s irreplaceable role.

Ukraine’s Technological Edge vs. Russia’s Mass Mobilization

Europe is shifting toward autonomous warfare, but Ukraine’s current battlefield reality remains brutal: Russia advances slowly, sacrificing thousands of lives, while Ukraine relies on quality over quantity—a professional, tech-driven military. Over 700 Ukrainian companies are accelerating drone, AI, and autonomous system development, but innovation alone isn’t enough. Russia’s relentless strikes and territorial gains highlight Ukraine’s need for scalable superiority—not just in technology but in institutional and industrial capacity.

Europe and the UK Strengthen Military Support

At the EU-UK Security Summit, Ursula von der Leyen announced plans for joint weapons procurement and defense industry investments in Ukraine. If realized, this could boost Ukraine’s long-term defense capabilities and improve interoperability with European forces. The proposed €150 billion European defense fund (SAFE) could further enhance cooperation, with Britain potentially participating post-Brexit.

Britain’s Post-Brexit Defense Role

Despite Brexit’s economic disappointments, the UK remains a key NATO player and seeks relevance in European security. While wary of EU defense initiatives that might compete with NATO, Britain acknowledges the need for complementary efforts—NATO excels in military operations, while the EU has funding and political structures. The UK’s involvement signals its continued commitment to European security, even outside the EU.

Ukraine’s Path to Self-Reliance

The conference’s central conclusion: Ukraine must produce 100% of its own arms to prove it cannot be outlasted. As long as Moscow believes Western support will wane, it will keep fighting. For Europe’s security, Ukraine must be seen as part of the solution, not a burden—only then will the West fully commit to securing its future.

The war’s outcome hinges on Ukraine’s ability to innovate, scale, and sustain its defense—while the West must decide whether to act decisively or risk prolonged conflict. 🚀💡

Ukrainian drones hit Russia’s factory supplying batteries for bombs and missiles second night in a row

Rank: 85

Ukrainian Drones Strike Key Russian Military and Chemical Facilities

On the night of 24 May, Ukrainian drones targeted multiple Russian chemical plants critical to military production, marking a significant escalation in cross-border attacks. Russia’s Ministry of Defense reported intercepting 94 drones, with the majority downed over Belgorod and Bryansk oblasts, though several breached defenses.

In Lipetsk Oblast, drones struck the Energiya plant in Yelets, Russia’s sole manufacturer of batteries for aviation bombs, including those used in planning and correction modules. Governor Igor Artamonov confirmed no casualties, but residents reported explosions and helicopter activity. This was the second attack on the facility in as many nights, following a previous strike that injured nine workers.

Simultaneously, drones hit the NAK Azot chemical plant in Novomoskovsk, Tula Oblast—Russia’s largest ammonia and nitrogen fertilizer producer. The strike damaged an acid container, a gas pipeline, and injured three people. Ukrainian officials noted the plant’s role in producing chemicals for military use, including ammonium nitrate (explosives), methanol (rocket fuel), and argon (defense metallurgy). Emergency teams assessed potential chemical hazards, as the facility also manufactures nitric acid, chlorine, and other industrial compounds.

The coordinated strikes underscore Ukraine’s strategy to disrupt Russia’s military supply chain, targeting facilities essential for explosives, missile systems, and aviation munitions. 💥🔥

“I heard boom and glass flew on the balcony”: Russian massive attack on Ukraine injures civilians, destroys homes

Rank: 85

Summary of Russia’s Massive Drone and Missile Assault on Ukraine

On the night of 23-24 May, Russia launched one of its most extensive combined attacks on Ukraine, targeting multiple regions with ballistic missiles and drones. The assault involved 14 Iskander-M/KN-23 missiles fired from Russian territories and occupied Crimea, alongside 250 Shahed-type strike drones and decoy aircraft. Kyiv was the primary focus, but the strikes also hit Dnipropetrovsk, Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, Kharkiv, and Donetsk oblasts.

Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted 6 ballistic missiles over Kyiv and neutralized 245 drones nationwide—128 shot down by fire weapons and 117 electronically suppressed. Despite these efforts, the attack caused widespread damage and injuries.

Kyiv Under Siege

The assault on Kyiv began at 9:54 p.m., with over 20 drones approaching from three directions. By morning, 15 civilians were injured, and six districts reported damage, including residential buildings, a shopping center, schools, and vehicles.

One survivor, Vanda Bondarenko, described the terror of being trapped in her eighth-floor apartment as debris struck, forcing her to wait for rescuers in the dark.

Kharkiv Oblast: Civilian Toll and Destruction

Russian forces also bombarded six settlements in Kharkiv Oblast, killing four people and injuring eight others. The attacks used missiles, guided bombs, and drones, damaging homes, warehouses, and infrastructure across Kupiansk, Chuhuiv, and Izium districts.

The strikes left dozens of homes destroyed, along with vehicles, warehouses, and public buildings, underscoring the escalating brutality of Russia’s war tactics. 💔

Russia's new tactics heightening tensions in Gulf of Finland, Defence Minister says

Rank: 85

Summary of Recent Developments in the Baltic Sea Region

Finnish Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen has highlighted increased Russian military activity in the Baltic Sea, contributing to heightened tensions in the region. While Russia’s military presence is not new, recent developments include the guarding of its "shadow fleet" tankers in the Gulf of Finland, involving military escorts and armed forces. Additionally, two Russian fighter jets violated Finnish airspace near Porvoo, and a Russian vessel defied Estonian authorities’ orders, with a fighter jet observed nearby. These incidents coincide with Russia’s escalating activities along Finland’s border.

Despite these developments, Häkkänen reassured that Finland’s security remains robust, emphasizing strong cooperation with NATO allies and the U.S. administration. He noted that while there is no immediate threat to Finland, Russia continues to bolster its military capabilities, posing a persistent risk to European security. 🛡️⚓

Russia hits Kyiv with massive drone and missile attack amid prisoner exchange

Rank: 85

Summary of Recent Events in Ukraine

Russia launched a large-scale drone and missile attack on Kyiv overnight, injuring at least 15 people and causing widespread damage. Ukrainian officials reported that Russia deployed 14 ballistic missiles and 250 Shahed drones, with Ukrainian forces intercepting 6 missiles and neutralizing 245 drones. The assault, described as one of the largest combined attacks on the capital, left debris scattered across multiple neighborhoods, sparking fires and damaging residential buildings. Kyiv’s mayor, Vitalii Klitschko, had warned residents of incoming drones, and emergency services responded to multiple incidents, including a heavily damaged shopping mall and apartment complex in the Obolon district.

Amid the attack, Ukraine and Russia completed a significant prisoner exchange, releasing hundreds of soldiers and civilians in a deal brokered during recent talks in Istanbul. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the return of 307 Ukrainians, marking the second phase of the largest swap of the war. Russia confirmed the exchange, stating it received an equal number of its own prisoners. Despite this rare cooperation, European leaders accused Russia of stalling peace efforts while advancing its military campaign, with the EU imposing a new round of sweeping sanctions to restrict Russia’s access to military technology and energy revenues.

The prisoner exchange remains one of the few tangible outcomes of stalled peace negotiations, as both sides continue to clash over key terms for ending the conflict. Ukraine and its Western allies insist on a temporary ceasefire as a first step toward resolution, but tensions persist as fighting escalates. The attack on Kyiv underscores the ongoing volatility, even as diplomatic efforts yield limited progress. 🔥💥

Ukraine and Russia swap hundreds more prisoners hours after mass strikes on Kyiv

Rank: 85

Russia and Ukraine Conduct Major Prisoner Swap Amid Escalating Attacks

Russia and Ukraine exchanged hundreds of prisoners on Saturday in a rare moment of cooperation, despite ongoing hostilities. Each side released 307 soldiers, following a previous swap of 390 combatants and civilians the day before. The exchange, part of a larger agreement to free 1,000 prisoners from each side, took place near the Belarus border. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russia’s defense ministry confirmed further releases were expected, though no details were provided.

The swap came just hours after a devastating Russian drone and missile strike on Kyiv, which wounded at least 15 people and damaged six districts. Ukrainian forces intercepted six missiles and neutralized 245 drones, but debris caused fires and injuries. Kyiv’s mayor, Vitalii Klitschko, warned residents of incoming drones, while emergency services responded to damage in residential and commercial areas. The attack, described as one of the largest on the capital, lasted over seven hours.

Meanwhile, Russian strikes elsewhere in Ukraine killed 13 civilians, including three in Odesa after a missile hit port infrastructure. Russia claimed the strike targeted military equipment, while Ukraine accused Moscow of escalating violence. Despite the prisoner exchange, fighting continued along the front lines, with neither side showing signs of halting operations.

Diplomatic efforts remain stalled, with no agreement yet on further peace talks. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov indicated Moscow would present a draft peace proposal after the prisoner swaps conclude, but European leaders accuse Russia of delaying negotiations while advancing militarily. The Istanbul meeting earlier this month, the first direct talks since 2022, ended with no breakthrough, though both sides agreed to continue discussions.

The conflict’s toll persists, with drone strikes hitting Russian regions, including a chemical plant in Tula linked to explosives production. As battles rage and diplomatic efforts falter, the prisoner exchange stands as a fleeting sign of cooperation amid relentless warfare. 🔥💔

Bloomberg: Europe can’t make enough weapons for Ukraine—so it wants to buy American

Rank: 75

European Leaders Scramble to Sustain Ukraine’s Defense as US Support Wanes

European leaders are urgently seeking ways to keep Ukraine armed amid signs that the US is scaling back its direct involvement in the war. One emerging strategy involves Europe purchasing American-made weapons and sending them to Ukraine independently. US military aid has been critical to Ukraine’s defense, providing advanced systems like HIMARS and Patriot missiles that Europe cannot match. Without continued US support, experts warn that Ukraine’s ability to resist Russian forces would weaken significantly.

With US arms deliveries halted and peace talks stalled, the urgency is growing. Reports suggest Russia is preparing for a new summer offensive while prolonging negotiations. Europe faces a major challenge, as it lacks sufficient arms stockpiles and production capacity to fill the gap left by the US. While the White House has stopped weapons shipments and rejected calls to maintain sanctions, intelligence sharing with Ukraine may continue, helping sustain defensive operations.

Time is running out, as weapons approved under the previous administration are expected to deplete by summer. Analysts note that while a US withdrawal is far from ideal, it may not be catastrophic if arms sales and intelligence cooperation persist. Ukraine’s growing use of domestically produced drones could also help offset the loss of direct US funding.

In response, the European Union is preparing new sanctions against Russia, including cutting over 20 Russian banks from SWIFT, lowering the oil price cap, and potentially banning Nord Stream pipelines. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has requested 10 Patriot air defense systems from the US, but a response remains pending. Meanwhile, US officials have urged NATO allies to contribute more, though many are reluctant to part with their own air defense systems.

The stakes are high, with experts warning that continued US weapons support—whether through sales or donations—is essential to pressure Russia into ending the war. A failure to sustain Ukraine could have severe political consequences, potentially becoming a defining foreign policy crisis. Europe’s proposed "buy American" approach may offer a compromise, allowing Ukraine to maintain its defense while reducing visible US involvement.

“They care about your lives more”: Viral Black journalist shatters illusions about Ukraine war support

Rank: 75

Summary of Terrell Starr’s Speech on Race, War, and Solidarity in Ukraine

Terrell Starr, a Black American journalist who gained attention for his war reporting in Ukraine, delivered a powerful speech at Lviv’s media forum, exposing the complex intersections of race, colonialism, and solidarity. Initially celebrated as a hero for helping white Ukrainian families evacuate—earning the nickname “Ukraine’s Harriet Tubman”—Starr faced backlash when he highlighted the racism African students endured while fleeing Ukraine. Many accused him of being a Kremlin propagandist, revealing a stark double standard: his humanity was praised when aiding Ukrainians but questioned when advocating for Black lives.

Starr emphasized that Western colonialism is not the only form of oppression, pointing out the hypocrisy of Americans who support Ukraine’s fight against Russian imperialism but ignore racial injustice at home. He challenged audiences to recognize that solidarity must extend beyond selective empathy, urging Ukrainians to advocate for oppressed groups like Palestinians and Africans if they expect global support. His experiences in Palestine further underscored this point, as he lost thousands of followers for speaking out against apartheid there.

A key theme was the reductive label of “whiteness,” which fails to capture Ukraine’s unique struggles under Russian colonialism. Starr called for dismantling racial constructs that divide people, stressing that true solidarity requires acknowledging shared humanity. He praised Ukrainians for being more open to these conversations than many Western institutions, where his voice as a Black journalist is often excluded. Ultimately, his message was clear: fighting oppression demands collective action, not selective outrage.

"We all have to fight the colonizers together." 🌍✊

Kyiv man attempts suicide in bomb shelter during record Russian missile strike

Rank: 75

Summary of the May 24 Russian Attack on Kyiv and Suicide Incident

On the early morning of May 24, Kyiv faced one of the most severe combined missile and drone attacks since the full-scale invasion, described by authorities as "one of the most massive" assaults on the capital. Russian forces launched 14 ballistic missiles (Iskander-M/KN-23) and 250 drones, targeting Kyiv and multiple regions, including Dnipropetrovsk, Odesa, Kharkiv, Donetsk, and Zaporizhzhia. Ukraine’s air defenses intercepted six missiles and 128 drones, while 117 drones were jammed or lost from radar tracking.

The attack caused widespread damage, injuring 15 civilians and affecting infrastructure across six districts. Nine residential buildings, two schools, a clinic, a post office, and a boiler facility were hit, with fires reported in Holosiivskyi, Sviatoshynskyi, Solomianskyi, Shevchenkivskyi, Dniprovskyi, and Obolonskyi districts.

Amid the chaos, a 23-year-old man attempted suicide in a bomb shelter in Kyiv’s Podilskyi district. He was hospitalized and underwent surgery, with authorities investigating the motive. The incident underscores the psychological toll of relentless attacks on civilians.

The assault marked a grim escalation in Russia’s campaign, demonstrating both the scale of its strikes and the resilience of Ukraine’s defenses. 💔🔥

Frontline report: Ukraine turns Russian motorbike assault into “graveyard for invaders” in Donetsk Oblast

Rank: 75

Summary of the Battle for Bahatyr in Donetsk Oblast

In a recent offensive near the village of Bahatyr in Donetsk Oblast, Russian forces launched a reckless assault aimed at disrupting Ukrainian defenses and advancing toward the Zaporizhzhia–Kostiantynivka highway. The operation, driven more by symbolic territorial gains than strategic value, sought to cut off Ukrainian supply lines and create a buffer zone around Donetsk city. Employing rapid "uppercut" tactics—including motorcycle and quad-bike rushes—Russian troops attempted to infiltrate Bahatyr’s flanks, targeting residential areas to establish a foothold.

However, Ukrainian forces were well-prepared. Anticipating the attack, they deployed kamikaze drones, minefields, and grenades with devastating precision, obliterating Russian columns before they could reach shelter. The assault turned into a massacre, with hundreds of Russian soldiers killed in open terrain, their wreckage littering the battlefield. While some Russian units managed temporary infiltration under cover of darkness, Ukrainian special forces swiftly conducted coordinated clearing operations, ensuring the village remained 95% free of enemy presence.

The failed assault underscored the futility of Russia’s high-casualty tactics, where waves of soldiers are expended for minimal gains. Had Russia succeeded, Bahatyr could have served as a launchpad to threaten Kostiantynopil and force Ukrainian withdrawals. Instead, Ukraine’s disciplined defense—leveraging drones, mines, and rapid counterattacks—transformed the village into a fortress and a graveyard for invaders. The battle highlights Ukraine’s ability to neutralize even vulnerable frontline positions through superior coordination and tactical innovation, while exposing Russia’s costly and ineffective approach to warfare. 💥🇺🇦

Ukraine says Russia aims to exclude US from peace talks, while Kyiv wants Trump’s involvement

Rank: 75

Ukraine Accuses Russia of Undermining US Role in Peace Talks

Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has accused Russia of deliberately attempting to exclude the United States from peace negotiations, arguing that Moscow seeks to weaken American influence in the process. Speaking in Kyiv on 23 May, Sybiha stressed that US involvement is crucial for any sustainable peace framework, stating, “I don’t believe in any security infrastructure in Europe without the USA. We need US involvement.” He welcomed both general US peace efforts and potential contributions from former President Donald Trump.

Sybiha highlighted progress from recent negotiations in Türkiye, where agreements were reached on prisoner exchanges—now underway—and discussions on future ceasefire terms. Despite this, peace talks in Istanbul have stalled due to what Ukrainian officials call “outrageous” Russian demands, including Ukraine surrendering four occupied regions, accepting military restrictions, and abandoning NATO aspirations.

Ukraine remains open to Trump’s participation in potential talks between Presidents Zelenskyy and Putin, while insisting that Europe must also play a key role. Meanwhile, Trump, after a call with Putin, reportedly told European leaders that the Russian president believes he is winning the war and is not ready to end it. Despite this, Trump shifted from supporting new sanctions to proposing lower-level peace talks at the Vatican—a venue Ukraine still considers viable, though Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov dismissed it as unrealistic.

The situation underscores deep divisions, with Ukraine pushing for broader international involvement while Russia continues to impose rigid conditions, complicating efforts for a lasting resolution. 🌍⚖️

Ukraine found a way to beat Russia’s unjammable drones. It doesn’t work anymore.

Rank: 75

Fiber-Optic FPV Drones: The Jam-Proof Challenge in Modern Warfare

Fiber-optic first-person-view (FPV) drones are revolutionizing drone warfare by transmitting signals through thin, miles-long optical fibers, making them immune to radio jamming—a common tactic against wireless drones. However, these drones aren’t invincible. Ukrainian forces have previously tracked Russian operators by spotting the reflective fibers trailing behind drones in sunlight, following them back to hidden bases. Yet, as drone warfare intensifies, battlefields like those in eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk Oblast are now littered with abandoned fibers, making it nearly impossible to trace active drones back to their operators.

The clutter of old fibers complicates countermeasures, as demonstrated in videos by Ukrainian electronic-warfare expert Serhii “Flash.” While Ukrainian forces once successfully hunted down a Russian drone team by following fiber trails, the tactic is now less effective due to the sheer volume of discarded cables. Meanwhile, both sides are increasingly adopting fiber-optic drones, reducing traditional countermeasures.

Despite their resilience, fiber-optic drones have vulnerabilities. Ukrainian long-range drones have targeted Russian fiber production facilities, disrupting supply chains. Additionally, simple defenses like closing doors and windows can thwart indoor attacks, as buildings block radio signals but not fiber-optic drones. Operators exploit open entry points—doors, windows, or roof gaps—to strike concealed troops and vehicles. A striking example occurred in April when a Ukrainian drone infiltrated a warehouse through an open door, destroying a Russian BMP and potentially igniting a larger fire, showcasing the devastating efficiency of these low-cost drones.

As drone warfare evolves, the key to defense may lie in basic precautions: securing buildings to deny drones entry. While tracking operators grows harder, shutting the door remains a critical—and often overlooked—tactic in the fight against fiber-optic FPV drones. 🚪🔒

Russo-Ukrainian war, day 1185: Ukraine exchanges 390 POWs in largest prisoner swap

Rank: 75

Summary of Key Developments in Ukraine’s Defense and Global Response

Ukraine’s military efforts have intensified with strategic strikes on critical Russian infrastructure, including a drone attack on the Energia plant in Lipetsk Oblast, which supplies batteries for Iskander and Kinzhal missiles. Meanwhile, a top Russian bomb-maker survived an assassination attempt, highlighting internal vulnerabilities. As Russia escalates threats, Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry rejected demands for a buffer zone in Ukraine, suggesting it could instead be established within Russia, referencing recent operations in Kursk Oblast.

Ukraine’s marines are undergoing rigorous NATO-led training, transforming into a formidable force for Europe’s eastern defense. A former ballroom dancer, Serhii Nazarenko, now leads elite special forces, showcasing Ukraine’s adaptability. Technological advancements include talks with Sweden’s SAAB to modernize Soviet-era jets and the development of cost-effective, jam-resistant recon drones by a Ukrainian-Estonian startup. However, concerns persist over German tech firms allegedly aiding Russia’s war machine despite official sanctions.

Internationally, the G7 affirmed that Russia’s frozen assets will remain inaccessible until full reparations are paid to Ukraine, with potential sanctions escalation if Moscow refuses a ceasefire. The EU launched a €150 billion defense loan scheme, SAFE, to bolster joint procurement and support for Kyiv.

Humanitarian impacts remain severe, with Russian attacks killing 10 civilians and injuring 31, including an ambulance driver in Kherson. A strike on a critical food supply hub killed two more. Amid these tragedies, Ukraine secured its largest prisoner swap, releasing defenders who endured over 1,000 days in captivity.

Politically, a Kremlin official reiterated Russia’s imperial ambitions, aiming to unify Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus. Legal actions include charges against Hermitage Museum employees for illegal excavations in occupied Crimea and the arrest of six suspected Russian agents, including a teenager recruited via Telegram. Analysts note Putin’s use of nationalism to militarize Russian society, reinforcing ideological resistance to the West.

This summary captures the multifaceted dimensions of the conflict, from military and technological advancements to humanitarian crises and geopolitical maneuvers. 🌍⚔️

Chief of the Greek Air Force visits US, discusses the delivery of F-35s

Rank: 75

Greek Air Force Chief Visits US to Advance F-35 Delivery and Defense Cooperation

Lieutenant General Dimosthenis Grigoriadis, Chief of the Hellenic Air Force, visited the United States from May 19–23 to discuss the upcoming delivery of F-35 fighter jets, a key enhancement to Greece’s defense capabilities amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. During his visit, Grigoriadis toured Lockheed Martin’s Fort Worth facility, where he received updates on the production of Greece’s F-35s and training programs for pilots and technical personnel. Meetings with U.S. Defense Department officials and Lockheed Martin executives focused on ensuring operational readiness and resolving technical issues in the advanced TR-3 variant of the aircraft.

Greece is set to receive its first four F-35s in late 2028, with four more following in 2029 and the final batch by 2030. The aircraft will initially be stationed at Ebbing Air Force Base in Arkansas, where Greek pilots and technicians will undergo training—including simulator exercises and theoretical courses in Florida. A 70-person Greek Air Force contingent will remain in the U.S. for about a year to complete preparations.

In Washington, Grigoriadis met with U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff General David Allvin to discuss strengthening bilateral defense ties, particularly in operational capabilities and training. Greece has also requested expedited access to advanced missile systems for the F-35, with the U.S. already approving most of the requested long-range weapons. Additional meetings with Pentagon officials and the F-35 Joint Program Office underscored U.S. appreciation for Greece’s support of American forces in Larissa and joint missions.

Grigoriadis emphasized the Hellenic Air Force’s role as a stabilizing force in the region, fostering strong partnerships with Israel, Egypt, and Gulf States. The acquisition of the F-35 marks a significant upgrade in Greece’s defense posture. The delegation also visited Crystal City, Virginia, where a Greek liaison office for the F-35 program will open in September 2025 to improve interoperability and cooperation with U.S. authorities. 🚀✈️