Volodymyr Zelenskyy

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Ukraine has agreed to share its expertise and interceptor drone technology to help the US counter Iranian attacks in the Middle East. President Zelenskyy emphasized that this assistance will only be provided if it doesn't compromise Ukraine's own defense and strengthens diplomatic ties. He also suggested a potential drone-for-missile swap with Gulf allies.

A French town's mayoral election gained unexpected internet fame due to a candidate named Charles Hittler running against Antoine Renault-Zielinski. The unusual name pairing has sparked widespread online commentary, overshadowing the actual political discourse and causing distress to the incumbent mayor.

volodymyr zelenskyy gifted Donald Trump a golf club owned by a Ukrainian soldier who lost his leg in the war, symbolizing bravery and connection. Trump thanked the soldier in a video and offered Zelenskyy a symbolic "key" to the White House, signaling renewed friendship after a tense meeting earlier in the year.

Ukraine President volodymyr zelenskyy is often hailed for his strong-headed and courageous nature amidst the Russia-Ukraine war. His wife, Olena Zelenska, the First Lady of Ukraine and a screenwriter, supports him steadfastly. Their enduring 21-year marriage, founded on a high-school romance, remains a pillar of strength for the couple.

As Middle East tensions escalate, Russia is quietly positioning itself to benefit from the ensuing chaos. While global powers focus on the conflict, Moscow is leveraging diplomacy and energy markets to expand its influence. The crisis has boosted Russia's energy revenues and shifted international attention away from Ukraine, creating a strategic advantage for Moscow.

As the Iran war stretches on, Trump’s ambitions beyond the Middle East raise larger questions about US power. Are these moves a projection of strength — or signs of a superpower grappling with decline?