Volodymyr Zelenskyy

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.

A Ukrainian drone strike in the Moscow region resulted in the death of one Indian worker and injuries to three others. Ukrainian President volodymyr zelenskyy stated the attack was justified retaliation for Russia's continued assaults on Ukraine. Russia reported intercepting hundreds of drones in one of the largest offensives of the war.

Ukrainian President volodymyr zelenskyy met with Palantir CEO Alex Karp in Kyiv to explore AI advancements for defence and civilian needs. Ukraine's Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov highlighted the nation's use of technology in combat and against the Russian economy, aiming to deepen cooperation with the US firm for a technological edge in the ongoing conflict.

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.

A Russian missile strike on a Kyiv apartment building claimed 24 lives, including three teenagers, as emergency crews concluded their search. This attack, part of Russia's largest barrage since the invasion, underscores the ongoing conflict despite recent ceasefire suggestions. Ukraine also launched drone attacks, hitting a Russian oil refinery and causing casualties.

US President Trump announced a three-day Russia-Ukraine ceasefire from May 9-11, hoping for a long-term peace deal and a prisoner exchange. Despite this, fighting persisted, with both sides reporting attacks. Ukraine accused Russia of continuing assaults, while Russia claimed to intercept numerous drones. The truce follows Russia's Victory Day, a proposal Kyiv had previously dismissed.

Ukraine's ex-chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, faces a major graft probe for alleged money laundering, embarrassing president Zelenskyy amid EU accession talks. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy met Palantir's CEO to boost defense tech cooperation. Russia launched over 200 drones after a brief lull, despite Ukraine's improved battlefield position.

Ukraine announced a ceasefire starting May 5-6, prioritizing human life over Victory Day commemorations, with President Zelenskyy criticizing Russia's focus on parades. Russia, however, declared its own truce from May 8-9, coinciding with WWII Victory Day, and warned of massive retaliation if Kyiv disrupts their celebrations.

BJP's Bengal win strengthens PM Modi’s hand in dealing with Bangladesh and with both the great powers – China and the US. Pakistan, too, will be particularly unsettled

The Trump-Xi summit yielded no major breakthroughs, with both leaders sticking to their strategic interests, particularly concerning Taiwan. Russia's intensified attacks on Ukraine, met with Ukrainian drone strikes deep into Russia, highlight Moscow's continued aggression. Latvia's government collapsed over a drone incident, underscoring regional security concerns. Meanwhile, a joint US-Nigeria operation eliminated the Islamic State's No. 2 leader in Nigeria.

During a Beijing visit, President Trump observed China's military might, signaling a shift in global power. While the US faces munitions shortages and slow production, China's defense industry operates at wartime pace, excelling in drones, AI, and satellite tech. This evolving warfare, particularly concerning Taiwan, highlights a contest for future global dominance.

Ukrainian President volodymyr zelenskyy said that the forces have struck two Russian oil tankers near Novorossiysk port. This action highlights Ukraine's ongoing strategy to disrupt Russia's energy sector. Drone warfare has intensified, with Ukraine increasingly targeting Russian territory. Russia has also conducted extensive drone attacks across Ukraine. Diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire are ongoing.

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy urged global leaders, including PM Modi, to pressure Putin to end the war, stating mediation alone is insufficient. He emphasized unified international action over compromise. Meanwhile, Ukraine is bolstering defence ties in the Middle East, signing drone cooperation agreements with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE.

Marking Chernobyl's 40th anniversary, Ukraine's President Zelenskyy accused Russia of "nuclear terrorism," citing drone activity near the plant and warning of man-made disasters. Meanwhile, Ukrainian drones struck a Russian fertilizer plant, causing a pipeline leak. Russia also launched numerous drones overnight, with Ukraine intercepting most.

In a landmark decision, the European Union has greenlit an impressive €90 billion loan to Ukraine alongside a new wave of sanctions targeting Russia, effectively breaking a prolonged deadlock. This vital financial support, designated for military and fiscal stability, follows Hungary and Slovakia's recent agreement to resume oil flows through a major pipeline.

Ukraine is showcasing remarkable resilience against Russia through its innovative defense industry. The nation is producing millions of drones, long-range missiles, and robotic systems. These advanced weapons allow Ukraine to strike deep behind enemy lines and preserve its soldiers. This technological prowess is enabling Ukraine to effectively counter a larger adversary, demonstrating a new model of national resistance.

Drone warfare has reignited between Russia and Ukraine following a brief Orthodox truce, with both nations accusing each other of violations. Kyiv reported repelling 87 out of 98 Russian drones, while Moscow claimed to have downed 33 Ukrainian UAVs.

Russian drone attacks struck Odesa, Ukraine, causing casualties and damage. This occurred just before a proposed Easter ceasefire. Both Russia and Ukraine reported numerous drone interceptions. President Putin announced a 32-hour halt to hostilities. Ukraine stated readiness for a genuine ceasefire. Discussions on a prisoner exchange are ongoing.

Ukraine has outpaced Russia in drone attacks for the first time since the war began. Kyiv's forces targeted Russian oil infrastructure, aiming to disrupt funding for the conflict. Russia reported intercepting a record number of Ukrainian drones. Both nations continue to rely heavily on long-range strikes, raising concerns about the war's potential to spread.

Ukraine has inked new defence pacts with Qatar and Saudi Arabia, following a similar agreement with the UAE. These deals focus on drone warfare expertise, joint projects, and technological exchange. Kyiv aims to leverage its experience countering Russian drones to assist Gulf nations facing threats, potentially trading its interceptors for advanced air defence systems.