ukraine conflict

Defence analysts warn the issue is not just the quantity of weapons today but the speed at which industry can regenerate what has been used. A single week of heavy combat in either theatre can consume months of production output for certain precision munitions and interceptors. This has transformed a temporary logistical challenge into a broader strategic concern.

Russia unleashed a fierce assault on Kyiv, deploying the nuclear-capable Oreshnik hypersonic missile alongside numerous drones and other advanced weaponry. This escalation followed Moscow's accusations of Ukrainian strikes on a student dormitory, which Kyiv denied.

China has firmly denied a Financial Times article suggesting that President Xi Jinping cautioned Donald Trump about Vladimir Putin potentially regretting his actions in Ukraine. The article, citing unnamed sources, implied this exchange occurred during Trump’s trip to Beijing, offering a dramatic shift from their earlier talks.

Global conflicts highlight the need for affordable, long-range weapons. The US is procuring thousands of new, mass-producible cruise missiles, the Barracuda-500M, for over $2.6 million each. India, too, is seeking similar low-cost, high-volume strike capabilities, including drones and missiles, under its upcoming Defence Acquisition Procedure 2026.

Russian President Putin is set for a significant two-day visit to China, commencing May 19, to deepen strategic ties with President Xi Jinping. This follows closely on the heels of Donald Trump's high-profile trip to Beijing, which focused on Taiwan, trade, and Iran. The leaders will discuss strengthening their partnership and address key global issues, aiming to sign a joint declaration.

Ukraine has escalated its offensive by targeting a Russian oil refinery situated in Yaroslavl, roughly 700 kilometers away from its own territory, as declared by President Zelenskyy. He positioned this response as a fair counteraction in the ongoing conflict, propelling the conflict back into Russian territory.

Ukraine launched drone strikes on Russian regions, including those housing oil infrastructure, while Russia retaliated with attacks on Ukrainian port facilities. President Zelenskyy highlighted a significant drop in Russia's oil refining capacity due to these actions. Efforts to end the protracted conflict remain stalled, with both sides continuing cross-border strikes and accusing each other of targeting vital infrastructure.

Fuel prices saw another increase today. Petrol and diesel costs rose by less than one rupee per litre. This is the third price hike this month. The government aims to cover losses from higher crude oil prices. Global crude oil rates have climbed due to the Iran conflict. Consumers are facing rising fuel expenses again.

Britain is recalibrating its approach to Russian oil imports by introducing restrictions on refined products at a measured pace. This strategy, driven by escalating energy market volatility linked to conflicts in the Middle East and climbing fuel prices, seeks to mitigate the risk of abrupt supply shortages.

India and the US are prioritizing 'Make in India' in defense cooperation, following recent talks between external affairs minister S Jaishankar and US secretary of State Marco Rubio. Discussions also covered energy security, trade, and advancements in critical technologies like semiconductors and AI, underscoring a deepening strategic alliance.

In a recent briefing, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declared it too early to delve into the specifics of a potential resolution to the war, even as president Putin hints at a possible end. Peskov underscored Russia's willingness to engage in discussions, insisting that the ball is in Ukraine's court to determine its next moves to cease the special military operation.

The US is bolstering its presence in Poland with an additional 5,000 troops, recognizing Warsaw's escalating importance in regional security. Poland, already hosting 10,000 American soldiers, is rapidly militarizing, investing heavily in advanced weaponry from the US and South Korea.

Armenia is bolstering its defence with India, seeking robust military hardware and training to counter threats from Azerbaijan, which is supported by Pakistan and Turkey. Recent high-level visits and significant arms deals, including Akash missile systems, highlight New Delhi's growing role as Armenia's key strategic partner in the South Caucasus.

Russia is upgrading its Kh-101 cruise missiles with advanced countermeasures to counter Ukraine's air defences. Recent footage shows these missiles deploying flares and potentially radar-confusing chaff. Despite these efforts, Ukraine claims high interception rates, though Russia's hypersonic missiles like Oreshnik pose a greater future threat.

India and Cyprus elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership, aiming to boost bilateral investments in sectors like defense and tourism. This move strengthens Cyprus's defense capabilities and positions it as a key European entry point for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, countering regional geopolitical challenges.

India and Italy have elevated their ties to a Special Strategic Partnership, fostering deeper cooperation in defence, technology, and trade. A defence roadmap for co-development and co-production of military platforms was agreed upon, alongside an ambitious €20 billion trade target by 2029. Discussions also covered global security, including West Asia and Ukraine, and maritime cooperation.

‘No Power Can Stop India From Becoming Largest Exporter In The Next 25 To 30 Years

Nibe Limited, a leading innovator in defense technology from India, has successfully tested its Vayu Astra Loitering Munition, which features a robust 10 kg warhead and a striking operational range of 100 km. This next-gen drone sets itself apart with its operator-controlled functionality, empowering users to identify and engage targets dynamically.

The war in Ukraine showcases a rapid shift in modern warfare, with drones and robotic ground vehicles increasingly replacing soldiers in high-risk missions. China's advancements in humanoid combat robots and AI-powered systems signal a potential global arms race, while Ukraine's battlefield innovations highlight the growing role of automation and autonomous weapons.

Addressing a media briefing on Monday, Sharma said India had been sourcing oil from Russia before the waiver period, during it, and continues to do so now as well.