Former FBI agent Jonathan Buma alleges that Russian intelligence, with Vladimir Putin’s knowledge, targeted Elon Musk and Peter Thiel for blackmail using information gathered on their personal lives. Buma claims Musk’s alleged vulnerabilities, including his involvement in events like Burning Man and reported substance use, were exploited by Russian spies. These allegations, presented in a ZDF documentary, suggest a deliberate Russian attempt to influence or compromise influential figures following the Ukraine invasion. It’s notable that Buma himself faces charges for leaking classified information.
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A surge in pro-Russian content on platforms like Substack exhibits striking uniformity in messaging, mirroring Kremlin narratives and often blaming NATO or portraying Ukraine negatively. The high frequency of near-identical posts across numerous blogs suggests coordination, potentially aided by AI-generated text. Strategic language switching to Russian further amplifies the reach and perceived authenticity of this disinformation campaign. This coordinated effort creates a distorted online landscape, masking its origins and giving a veneer of legitimacy to pro-Kremlin viewpoints.
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Romania’s Acting President Ilie Bolojan recently enacted legislation granting the armed forces authority to shoot down unauthorized drones in Romanian airspace. This follows several incidents involving Russian drones illegally entering the country from Ukraine. The law, passed by Parliament in February 2025, was challenged unsuccessfully by far-right parties in the Constitutional Court. Its implementation aims to bolster Romania’s defense capabilities against such incursions.
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Contrary to a Ukrainian intelligence warning, Russia did not launch an RS-24 Yars intercontinental ballistic missile on May 18-19. The absence of any publicly available video footage of the launch, despite its likely visibility across a vast Siberian area, suggests the launch did not occur. While the reason remains unknown, this follows two previous failed Yars launches in 2023 and the inherent risk of failure in even advanced missile systems. Defense Express speculates that potential launch complications or a desire to avoid showcasing the inefficiency of Russia’s nuclear deterrent may have influenced the decision.
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Following a meeting in Rome, Australian Prime Minister Albanese confirmed to Ukrainian President Zelenskyy that pledged Abrams tanks are en route to Ukraine. Discussions also covered increasing pressure on Russia, including further sanctions, and the ongoing case of Australian citizen Oscar Jenkins imprisoned in Russia. Separately, Albanese cautiously responded to the European Union’s proposal for a deepened security partnership, suggesting further consideration was needed. Despite delays, the Australian government remains committed to supporting Ukraine’s defense against Russia’s invasion.
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Ahead of a call with Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin reportedly believes Russia will seize four Ukrainian oblasts by 2025, thus possessing leverage against any peace negotiations. This confidence, despite contradicting Western and even some Russian military assessments, fuels Putin’s unwillingness to concede. European officials worry Trump might pressure for a settlement regardless of Putin’s stance, while Putin remains prepared for a protracted conflict. Trump, conversely, seeks a swift resolution and plans to update Zelenskyy and NATO allies following his conversation with Putin.
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The EU approved its 17th sanctions package against Russia, focusing on its “shadow” oil fleet used to circumvent existing export restrictions and targeting approximately 200 tankers. The package also adds dozens of Russian officials to the sanctions list for various offenses, including cyberattacks and human rights abuses. This relatively modest package reflects the increasing difficulty in achieving EU-wide consensus on new sanctions. Further, the EU issued a stark warning of “massive sanctions” should Russia reject a proposed ceasefire in Ukraine, emphasizing the potential for significantly harsher measures in the future.
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Denmark’s 26th military aid package for Ukraine totals $598 million, encompassing artillery, ammunition via a Czech initiative, fighter jet equipment, and enhanced training capabilities. Funding is sourced from the Ukraine Fund and the European Peace Facility, extending support through 2028. This contribution bolsters Ukraine’s ammunition supply and strengthens its long-term defense capacity. The aid reflects Denmark’s continued commitment to supporting Ukraine both militarily and diplomatically.
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Following Russia’s detention of the Green Admire oil tanker in internationally agreed waters, Estonia will reroute maritime traffic to and from Sillamae entirely through its own territorial waters. The Greek-owned, Liberian-flagged tanker, carrying shale oil, was seized while transiting a previously established route through Russian waters. This action, unprecedented in the region, prompted Estonia to inform NATO allies and underscores Russia’s unpredictable behavior. The new route avoids Russian waters altogether, mitigating future risks to Estonian maritime traffic.
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In Rome on May 18th, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy held a productive meeting with US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The discussion centered on the unrealistic Russian demands presented during Istanbul peace talks, with Zelenskyy emphasizing Ukraine’s commitment to genuine diplomacy and a complete, unconditional ceasefire. He highlighted Russia’s lack of negotiating authority and ceasefire violations, underscoring the need for continued international pressure to compel Russia to end the war. The meeting also covered sanctions, trade, defense cooperation, and prisoner exchanges.
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John Q. Hosedrinker