The Trump administration’s opposition to strong wording in a forthcoming G7 statement regarding Ukraine has reportedly stalled the drafting process. This opposition specifically targets language affirming continued support for Kyiv and characterizing Russia’s invasion as illegal. This stance mirrors previous instances where the US blocked similar condemnations, reflecting a prioritisation of peace talks with Russia over firm condemnation of its actions. The disagreements highlight a persistent divergence between the US and other G7 members on how to address the ongoing war in Ukraine.
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Former Ukrainian politician Andriy Portnov, a senior aide to ousted President Viktor Yanukovich, was fatally shot in Madrid. Multiple gunmen fired upon him near the American School of Madrid, fleeing the scene afterward. Portnov, who had faced investigations and sanctions related to corruption and alleged involvement in Russia’s annexation of Crimea, had lived in exile since 2014. His death follows other recent attacks targeting prominent Russians and Ukrainians in Spain.
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Colonel General Andrei Mordvichev has been appointed the new commander of Russia’s ground forces, replacing General Oleg Salyukov. Mordvichev, known for his brutal, attritional combat tactics, oversaw the sieges of Mariupol and Avdiivka, resulting in significant Ukrainian casualties. His appointment, reported amidst ongoing peace talks, suggests the Kremlin’s endorsement of these tactics. Mordvichev’s close relationship with Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov further highlights his rise through the ranks.
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The United States is actively encouraging NATO allies with Patriot air defense systems to transfer them to Ukraine, despite a current US shortage. While ongoing aid deliveries continue, new aid packages require White House and Congressional approval. This effort faces challenges as allied nations are hesitant to relinquish their own Patriot systems. Ultimately, a negotiated settlement is deemed necessary to resolve the conflict.
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The EU implemented its seventeenth sanctions package against Russia on May 20th, targeting nearly 200 vessels within Russia’s shadow fleet and addressing hybrid threats and human rights violations. This action follows previous announcements regarding increased pressure on Russia, including potential sanctions against supporting financial institutions. Work has already begun on an eighteenth package, potentially targeting banks outside the EU that aid Russia’s military. The EU’s stance remains firm: escalated Russian aggression will be met with progressively stronger countermeasures.
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Russia’s drastically declining birth rate, reaching levels unseen since the late 18th or early 19th century, has prompted the government to restrict access to key demographic data. This follows a reported drop in births of 6-7 percent in February and 3-4 percent in March 2025. The Federal State Statistics Service (Rosstat) now only publishes cumulative yearly figures, concealing the severity of the crisis. This secrecy coincides with ongoing government efforts to boost the birth rate, including financial incentives and proposed legal changes.
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President Zelensky firmly rejected Russia’s territorial demands, stating Ukraine will not withdraw troops from its own land. These demands, reiterated in Istanbul negotiations, included ceding Crimea and four eastern oblasts, even though Russia doesn’t fully control them. Russia’s maximalist position, including eliminating the “root causes” of the war, remains unchanged, while Ukraine continues to push for a full, unconditional ceasefire, a position supported by President Trump but causing friction with European allies. Despite this, no new U.S. sanctions against Russia have been enacted.
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A rare phone call between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump yielded contrasting interpretations. While Trump lauded the conversation as “excellent” and predicted imminent ceasefire negotiations, Putin, while acknowledging a “meaningful and frank” discussion, refused a US-proposed 30-day unconditional ceasefire. Putin reiterated Russia’s maximalist war aims, centering on addressing what he termed the “root causes” of the conflict, which include significant concessions from Ukraine. Despite Zelenskyy’s call for a full ceasefire and stronger sanctions against Russia if negotiations fail, no significant breakthrough emerged from the call.
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CILAS’s new HELMA-LP portable laser rifle, showcased at SOFINS, offers a unique solution for close-to-medium range engagements. Building upon the larger HELMA-P system, the HELMA-LP’s portability allows for stealthy neutralization of enemy electronics, sensors, and surveillance equipment. Its potential application in Ukraine is significant, offering a silent and precise countermeasure against drones and other threats, potentially disrupting Russian electronic warfare capabilities. The HELMA-LP’s ability to disable enemy assets without collateral damage could prove invaluable in urban and trench warfare.
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A Polish customs seizure in Koroszczyn uncovered five metric tons of Boeing aircraft tires falsely declared as car and bus tires. The shipment originated in Spain and was destined for Azerbaijan, but was intercepted due to its suspected final use in Russia, violating sanctions imposed following the Ukraine invasion. Criminal proceedings for customs fraud have been initiated. The seized tires, intended for civilian aircraft, highlight ongoing efforts to circumvent Western sanctions on Russia.
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John Q. Hosedrinker