ukraine ceasefire

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.

Russia resumed attacks on Ukraine with drone strikes on Kyiv as a three-day truce expired, while one person was killed in Dnipropetrovsk. Moscow claims to have downed 27 Ukrainian drones. Despite hopes for peace, both sides accused each other of violations during the ceasefire, with President Zelensky stating fighting continued.

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.

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.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday accused Russia of "utter cynicism" for launching deadly attacks while also seeking a truce to stage its May 9 Victory Day parade in Moscow. "It is utter cynicism to ask for a ceasefire in order to hold propaganda celebrations while carrying out such missile and drone strikes every single day leading up to it," Zelensky said in a statement in response to the attacks.

Kyiv said on Wednesday that Russia had violated a unilateral ceasefire called by Ukraine by attacking Ukrainian cities with 108 combat drones and three missiles overnight. Russia had on Tuesday launched waves of drone, missile and bomb attacks on multiple cities across Ukraine, killing at least 28 people and wounding dozens in one of the deadliest days for civilians in weeks.

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.

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.

Presidents Putin and Trump held a 1.5-hour call discussing the Middle East war and Ukraine. Putin backed Trump's Iran ceasefire extension, viewing it as a stabilizing move. He also proposed a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine for Victory Day, aiming to advance peace negotiations.

By mid-2026, Russia's Ukraine invasion has transformed into a grinding conflict. Ukraine's successful drone warfare and long-range strikes on Russian infrastructure are reshaping the battlefield. Russia, adapting with infiltration tactics and glide bombs, faces a new, industrialized war of attrition. European aid bolsters Ukraine's defense, while diplomatic progress remains stalled.

Elina Svitolina and Marta Kostyuk shared heartbreaking reactions after Russia’s massive missile attack on Kyiv killed civilians and damaged multiple Ukrainian regions. While Svitolina continues competing at the Italian Open, both Ukrainian tennis stars once again showed support for their home country during another painful moment in the ongoing war.

Former US President Donald Trump linked the Ukraine conflict with US operations against Iran. He suggested both situations might follow a similar timeline. Trump also stated Ukraine was militarily defeated. He discussed a conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding a ceasefire in Ukraine and assistance with Iran. Putin reportedly offered help on Iran's uranium issue.

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.

Russian President Vladimir Putin offered to help manage Iran's enriched uranium stockpile during a call with US President Donald Trump. Trump, however, prioritized Putin's involvement in ending the Ukraine war, stating his main concern is the conflict in Ukraine. The US president also indicated a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz would continue to pressure Iran over its nuclear program.

Hezbollah's deployment of cheap, fibre-optic drones is presenting a significant challenge to Israeli forces in southern Lebanon. These low-tech, untraceable devices, unlike GPS-guided ones, are difficult to counter, forcing the Israeli military to adapt its tactics. The group is manufacturing these drones domestically, exploiting perceived weaknesses in Israeli defenses.

During his recent trip to Beijing, President Trump showcased a willingness to engage in conversations about US arms sales to Taiwan, confident that his personal bond with Xi Jinping would act as a buffer against any potential Chinese aggression. The visit, primarily focused on enhancing trade relations, also included key American business leaders.