In response to Russia’s widespread airstrikes on Ukrainian civilians, Keith Kellogg, President Trump’s special envoy to Ukraine, condemned the attacks as a blatant violation of the 1977 Geneva Peace Protocols. Kellogg highlighted the horrific targeting of innocent women and children, emphasizing the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire. This condemnation contrasts with Representative Don Bacon’s proposed response of escalating military aid and sanctions against Russia. President Zelenskyy has also called for increased international pressure on the Kremlin.
Read More
Russia launched its largest-ever air attack on Ukraine, using over 360 missiles and drones, resulting in at least 14 deaths, including three children, and widespread damage across 13 regions. Ukrainian forces reported shooting down numerous missiles and drones, but the attack caused significant damage to residential buildings and infrastructure. The assault, which targeted military and civilian sites, came amidst ongoing calls for a ceasefire, which Russia has ignored. President Zelenskyy emphasized the need for stronger international pressure on Russia to halt the escalating violence.
Read More
During a May 20th visit by Vladimir Putin to Russia’s Kursk Oblast, Ukrainian forces launched a large-scale drone attack. Kursk Oblast’s air defense forces intercepted 46 drones. The defense of Putin’s helicopter was a key element of this operation, placing it at the center of the counter-drone efforts. This unprecedented attack highlights the escalating conflict and the significant security measures surrounding Putin’s movements.
Read More
Following Russia’s largest aerial assault on Ukraine, President Zelenskyy criticized the international community’s silence, urging stronger sanctions against Russia. The attack, involving hundreds of drones and missiles, resulted in civilian casualties and underscored the ongoing conflict. While a prisoner exchange occurred, efforts towards a ceasefire remain stalled, hampered by differing approaches from the US and European allies. Despite new EU and UK sanctions targeting Russia’s oil exports, the US administration’s position on further sanctions remains uncertain.
Read More
Following the capsizing of a new navy destroyer in front of Kim Jong-un, three Chongjin shipyard officials—the chief engineer, hull-construction workshop head, and a deputy manager—were arrested. The incident, witnessed by Kim Jong-un, involved a launch failure resulting in the warship listing significantly. Kim characterized the event as a “criminal act” stemming from negligence and irresponsibility. The arrested officials face potential execution, reflecting the regime’s history of harsh penalties for such failures. A salvage operation is underway.
Read More
Following a large-scale Russian missile attack on May 24-25, resulting in at least three child deaths, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha urged intensified international pressure on Russia for an immediate ceasefire. The attack, involving hundreds of drones and missiles, constitutes one of the largest recent assaults on Ukrainian cities. Sybiha stressed the urgent need for a complete and unconditional ceasefire as a prerequisite for any peace efforts. Poland’s response included scrambling fighter jets in reaction to the barrage.
Read More
In response to a large-scale Russian attack on Ukraine involving drones and missiles on May 25th, Poland and allied nations immediately scrambled fighter jets and heightened the readiness of ground-based air defenses and radar systems. These actions, conducted according to established procedures, aimed to protect Polish airspace bordering at-risk areas. The Polish Operational Command deployed all available forces, maintaining a state of high alert and continuous monitoring of the situation. The Russian assault resulted in casualties and damage in multiple Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv and Odesa.
Read More
Following a disastrous launch ceremony for a new 5,000-tonne destroyer, in which the ship’s bottom was crushed causing it to tip, North Korea has arrested three shipyard officials. The chief engineer, construction head, and an administrative manager from the Chongjin shipyard were detained and deemed responsible for what leader Kim Jong Un called a “criminal act.” Satellite imagery confirmed the extent of the damage to the vessel. An investigation into the incident is underway.
Read More
Beginning in 2026, Saudi Arabia will implement a tightly controlled alcohol licensing system in designated tourist areas, including hotels and resorts, to support its Vision 2030 economic diversification plan. This limited alcohol availability, encompassing beer, wine, and cider but excluding spirits, aims to attract international events and investment while preserving cultural norms. Strict regulations and penalties for misuse will govern sales and consumption, ensuring responsible handling within authorized locations only. The initiative is expected to boost job creation and growth in hospitality and related sectors.
Read More
During the night of May 23-24, Russia launched a massive attack on Ukraine, utilizing 14 Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles and 250 attack drones. Ukrainian forces successfully intercepted six ballistic missiles and 128 drones, while electronic warfare neutralized a further 117 drones. The assault targeted multiple regions, including Kyiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Odesa, and Zaporizhzhia, causing widespread disruption. This large-scale attack demonstrates the ongoing intensity of the conflict.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker