Playboy Ukraine’s special edition showcases the “Beauty with Scars” project, featuring photos of five Ukrainian women—three servicewomen and two civilians—who sustained injuries, including amputations, during the war. The project, photographed by Kostiantyn Liberov, aims to redefine beauty and inspire resilience in women who have experienced trauma. The women, who include a sniper, drone operator, and captain in the Armed Forces, share their stories of survival and recovery. The magazine highlights their strength and celebrates their enduring beauty.
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Drone attacks on May 6-7 caused widespread disruption to Russian air travel, impacting over 350 flights and 60,000 passengers. Major airports like Vnukovo, Sheremetyevo, and Domodedovo experienced significant cancellations and delays, with many flights diverted. The disruptions extended beyond Moscow, affecting numerous cities and causing a domino effect of further delays. Airlines across Russia were forced to consolidate or cancel flights as a result of the air traffic restrictions and ensuing chaos.
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Ukrainian drone attacks near Moscow on May 7 caused widespread disruption at Moscow airports, leading to significant flight delays and diversions, affecting an estimated 350 flights and 60,000 passengers. This follows two prior days of similar incidents, impacting air travel across Central Russia. The disruptions occurred just days before Russia’s Victory Day parade, a major event with numerous foreign dignitaries expected to attend. Russia’s defense ministry claimed to have intercepted the drones.
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Six Bulgarian nationals, operating under whimsical code names like “Jackie Chan” and “Mad Max,” were convicted of espionage in a sophisticated operation spanning the UK and Europe. Their activities, directed by alleged Russian agent Jan Marsalek, involved surveillance of journalists, diplomats, and Ukrainian troops, posing a significant threat to national security. The group’s arsenal included a vast array of sophisticated spy equipment, and plots ranged from honeytraps to discussions of kidnapping and murder. Sentencing will determine prison terms of up to 14 years for these crimes.
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In an exclusive BBC interview, Joe Biden condemned the Trump administration’s pressure on Ukraine to cede territory to Russia as “modern-day appeasement,” arguing that such concessions would not satisfy Vladimir Putin. Biden expressed concern that this approach could damage US-European relations and erode trust in American leadership. He further criticized Trump’s rhetoric and actions towards allies, contrasting them with his own administration’s policies. Biden highlighted the importance of strong alliances and the economic benefits of collaboration, contrasting Trump’s approach with his own record of economic growth and international influence.
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During a Paris meeting, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron issued a joint call for enhanced European defense cooperation and a lasting peace in Ukraine. The discussion included the future of nuclear deterrence and a strengthening of the European Union’s military capabilities. This collaboration aims to bolster Europe’s security posture and promote a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine. The leaders also intend to engage the United Kingdom in these discussions, building a stronger trilateral partnership.
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Former President Biden criticized Donald Trump’s proposed concessions to Russia in Ukraine as “modern-day appeasement,” fearing it would embolden Russia and other European nations. Biden contrasted this with his own administration’s approach, which he argued provided Ukraine with the necessary support to resist invasion while carefully avoiding a broader conflict, including the risk of nuclear escalation. He maintained that Putin views Ukraine as historically Russian territory and that concessions would only encourage further aggression. Biden asserted his administration successfully prevented World War III through calculated responses to Putin’s threats.
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Following the Pahalgam terror attack, India launched retaliatory airstrikes against nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir. Subsequently, Indian officials contacted counterparts in the US, UK, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE to explain the military action. The strikes were a direct response to the attack, which killed 26 civilians. India asserted its commitment to holding those responsible accountable. These actions occurred two weeks after the initial attack.
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Former Vice President Pence criticized the White House’s handling of the Ukraine conflict, arguing that its wavering support has emboldened Russia. He highlighted Ukraine’s acceptance of a proposed 30-day ceasefire, which Russia has ignored, opting instead for self-serving truces. Pence stressed that Putin responds only to strength, advocating for continued military aid to Ukraine to achieve a just peace and prevent further Russian aggression. He warned that failing to support Ukraine could lead to a wider conflict requiring direct U.S. military intervention.
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The EU unveiled a two-phase plan to eliminate all Russian gas imports by 2027, aiming to end new and short-term contracts this year, followed by a complete ban. This decision, requiring a weighted majority vote, reflects the EU’s aim to sever energy ties with Russia, citing its weaponization of energy resources. While Russian gas imports have significantly decreased since 2022, concerns remain about potential reliance on alternative suppliers, particularly the US, and the risk of similar political manipulation. The plan also includes additional measures targeting Russia’s oil and nuclear materials trade.
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John Q. Hosedrinker