Construction of a 4.7-kilometer road bridge connecting Russia and North Korea has commenced in Primorsky Krai, Russia, with completion anticipated within 18 months. This project, undertaken by a Sochi-based company, will supplement existing rail and air links, significantly boosting cargo and passenger transport between the two nations. The bridge itself spans one kilometer, incorporating a seven-meter-wide roadway, and will feature a nearby car checkpoint. This development follows the December 2024 strategic cooperation treaty and North Korea’s military support for Russia in the Ukraine conflict.
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France has formally accused Russia’s military intelligence, specifically the GRU’s APT28 group (also known as Fancy Bear), of conducting a wide-ranging cyberattack campaign targeting French interests. This campaign included the 2017 hacking of Emmanuel Macron’s presidential campaign, the 2015 attack on TV5Monde, and recent intrusions into organizations involved in the 2024 Paris Olympics and various other sectors. The attacks, which aimed to manipulate public opinion and gather strategic intelligence, have been ongoing since at least 2021. France, in conjunction with international partners, vows to counter this malicious cyber activity.
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President Zelensky warned of potential Russian military aggression this summer, disguised as joint military exercises with Belarus, citing historical precedent. These exercises, particularly Zapad 2025, could serve as cover for assembling offensive forces, mirroring the lead-up to the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi corroborated this assessment, highlighting the use of exercises for covert troop relocation and concentration. Zelensky’s concerns extend beyond Ukraine, with previous warnings of potential Russian offensives against NATO countries.
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Rejecting Vladimir Putin’s proposed three-day ceasefire in Ukraine, U.S. special envoy Keith Kellogg advocated for a minimum 30-day truce encompassing all military operations. Kellogg expressed optimism regarding Ukraine’s position in ongoing negotiations, emphasizing the need for Russia to reciprocate the demonstrated willingness of Ukraine to cooperate. This comprehensive ceasefire proposal, favored by President Trump, aims for a lasting peace, contrasting sharply with Putin’s limited truce intended for Victory Day celebrations. The onus now rests on Russia to accept these conditions.
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A New Europe Center poll reveals that only 7.4% of Ukrainians trust President Trump, marking a near-doubling of distrust since November 2024. This widespread lack of confidence contrasts sharply with trust levels in other European countries. The April 2025 survey, conducted by INFO Sapiens LLC, sampled 1,000 Ukrainians and has a margin of error of 3.1%. This low approval follows Trump’s recent comments on the war in Ukraine, including criticism of Russia and calls for negotiations.
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In a recent interview, Donald Trump suggested that Vladimir Putin could potentially prompt him to support Ukraine, though not necessarily President Zelenskyy. Trump cited his past difficulties with Zelenskyy, referencing a past Oval Office meeting where he felt Zelenskyy’s requests were unreasonable. Trump alluded to various forms of support for Ukraine beyond military aid, such as sanctions and banking restrictions. He later reported a positive meeting with Zelenskyy at the Vatican, expressing uncertainty about the progress made but hinting at the possibility of further sanctions against Russia.
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The body of Ukrainian journalist Viktoria Roshchyna, returned to Ukraine in February 2025 as part of a prisoner exchange, was found to be missing several internal organs, including her brain and eyeballs. A joint investigation revealed evidence suggesting post-mortem dissection and torture, including a bruised neck consistent with strangulation and a Russian document referencing “СПАС,” potentially masking the true cause of death. The missing organs hampered definitive determination of the cause of death, though ongoing investigations indicate a high probability of torture during her captivity in Russian-occupied territory. Ukrainian authorities are treating her death as a war crime.
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In the 24 February 2022 – 29 April 2025 period, Russia has suffered devastating losses, with an estimated 950,860 military personnel killed or wounded, representing a 1,060 increase in the past day alone. Significant losses were also reported across various equipment categories, including over 10,000 tanks, 22,000 armored vehicles, and 27,000 artillery systems. These figures represent a substantial depletion of Russian military resources. The provided data is still undergoing confirmation.
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Satellite imagery and Western officials reveal Russia is rapidly expanding its military near its borders with Finland and other NATO countries, exceeding the expectations of many analysts. This buildup, including the creation of new divisions and infrastructure, is part of a broader plan to increase its army’s size to 1.5 million troops. Experts warn this signals potential preparations for future conflict with NATO, with some suggesting a limited operation against a Baltic state could occur within two to three years after the Ukraine war concludes. Russia’s increased defense spending has fueled a surge in military production, particularly of tanks and artillery.
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Australia’s promised donation of 59 retired M1A1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine is significantly delayed, despite being announced over six months ago as part of a $245 million aid package. The holdup stems from a lack of final US export approval, complicated by concerns regarding logistical challenges and the tanks’ age and vulnerability. While the Australian Department of Defence maintains the delivery is on track for 2025, internal sources express doubts about the transfer’s feasibility, citing potential peace negotiations and the lack of necessary personnel for sea transport. Australia remains committed to supporting Ukraine with over $1.5 billion in aid.
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John Q. Hosedrinker