Ukraine-Russia News
LAST UPDATE: May 26, 2025
Russia fired record barrage of 355 drones at Ukraine overnight: Kyiv
Russia launched 355 Shahed-type drones and nine cruise missiles at Ukraine overnight, marking the largest drone attack since the 2022 invasion.
Insight
This unprecedented assault underscores Russia’s escalating use of drone warfare to target Ukrainian infrastructure and civilian areas. The scale of the attack suggests a strategic shift towards overwhelming Ukraine’s air defenses and causing widespread disruption. It also reflects the increasing reliance on Iranian-made drones, highlighting the deepening military ties between Russia and Iran. The international community may view this as a significant escalation, potentially prompting discussions on enhancing Ukraine’s air defense capabilities and imposing further sanctions on Russia.
Trump lashes out at ‘crazy’ Putin, warns of Russia’s ‘downfall’
President Donald Trump criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin as “absolutely crazy” following Russia’s massive drone attack on Ukraine, warning that attempts to conquer all of Ukraine would lead to Russia’s downfall.
Insight
Trump’s remarks represent a notable departure from his previous stance on Putin, signaling a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy rhetoric. By publicly condemning Putin’s actions, Trump aligns with international criticism of Russia’s aggression. This could influence U.S. domestic politics, especially among constituents concerned about national security and foreign policy. Additionally, it may impact diplomatic relations, with Russia perceiving the comments as a direct challenge, potentially affecting future negotiations.
Russia does not see Vatican as a serious arena for peace talks, sources say
Russia dismisses the Vatican as a viable venue for peace talks with Ukraine, citing its location within NATO-member Italy and its status as the center of Catholicism, which contrasts with the Eastern Orthodox identities of Russia and Ukraine.
Insight
Russia’s rejection of the Vatican as a mediator reflects the complexities of finding a neutral ground acceptable to all parties involved. The emphasis on religious and geopolitical affiliations indicates that cultural and strategic considerations heavily influence diplomatic decisions. This stance may hinder peace efforts, as it narrows the pool of acceptable mediators. The international community may need to explore alternative venues that are perceived as neutral and acceptable to both Russia and Ukraine to facilitate meaningful negotiations.
