Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) conducted a successful long-range drone operation, codenamed “Spiderweb,” targeting four Russian airfields. The operation, planned for over 18 months and personally overseen by President Zelensky, resulted in significant damage to approximately 40 Russian aircraft, including A-50, Tu-95, and Tu-22M3 bombers, estimated at $7 billion. All SBU operatives involved were safely recovered, and the operation is considered a major Ukrainian victory.
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A large-scale Ukrainian drone operation, codenamed “Web,” successfully destroyed over 40 Russian aircraft at multiple air bases deep within Russian territory. The operation, personally overseen by President Zelenskyy and spanning over 18 months, involved the ingenious deployment of FPV drones hidden in mobile structures. This attack, resulting in an estimated $7 billion in damage, targeted long-range bombers crucial to Russia’s offensive capabilities. The audacious strike occurred hours before scheduled peace talks in Istanbul, highlighting the ongoing tensions between the two nations.
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A large-scale Ukrainian drone operation, codenamed “Spiderweb,” targeted four Russian airfields, reportedly destroying over 40 aircraft, including strategic bombers, with a combined value of $7 billion. Drones were smuggled into Russia and concealed in wooden sheds before launching their attacks from locations near the airbases. This unprecedented attack, overseen by President Zelenskyy, occurred amidst escalating cross-border activity and precedes a new round of peace talks in Istanbul.
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President Zelenskyy expressed skepticism regarding the next Istanbul talks, citing Russia’s failure to provide a promised memorandum outlining ceasefire terms and continued aggression. This lack of preparation and Moscow’s disregard for international calls for a ceasefire suggest the meeting may be unproductive. Zelenskyy nevertheless thanked Turkey for its peace efforts, particularly the prisoner exchange, and ongoing diplomatic support. Ukraine remains prepared for negotiations, but Russia’s actions indicate a possible attempt to stall peace efforts.
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Ongoing discussions between Ukraine and Germany regarding the delivery of Taurus missiles are currently underway, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy confirmed work is progressing on this front, although specifics remain confidential per an agreement with Chancellor Merz. Merz has previously expressed openness to supplying the missiles, while the German government maintains a policy of limited public disclosure on weapons deliveries. Pressure for the missile transfer continues to mount within Germany’s ruling coalition.
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Despite earlier assurances, Russia failed to deliver its promised “memorandum” to Ukraine, the United States, or Türkiye, a breach of commitments made to all three parties. President Zelenskyy characterized this as yet another instance of Russian deception, designed to render peace negotiations meaningless. This lack of good faith underscores the need for intensified sanctions against Russia. The absence of the document follows Ukraine’s own submission of its proposals.
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President Zelensky warned of an imminent Russian offensive in Ukraine’s north, citing 50,000 troops amassed near Kursk, aiming to recapture lost territory and push into the Sumy region. Despite Russia’s claims of expelling Ukrainian forces from Kursk, Zelensky asserted continued Ukrainian presence and recent Russian advances in the Sumy region. Simultaneously, Russia is attempting to breach the Dnipropetrovsk region, while Ukraine launched a major drone strike targeting Russian military infrastructure near Moscow. Amidst these escalating events, peace negotiations remain ongoing, although Russia’s demands for Ukrainian concessions, including Nato restrictions and territorial surrender, present significant obstacles.
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To bolster Ukraine’s defense against ongoing Russian aggression and address dwindling international aid, President Zelenskyy has requested $30 billion from Western allies by year’s end to boost domestic arms production. This funding, he argues, is crucial to overcome a production deficit and achieve military objectives, including significantly increasing drone production and daily operations. Zelenskyy also advocates for utilizing frozen Russian assets to finance these efforts, reiterating a previous G7 proposal to leverage such funds. The request comes amidst intensified Russian attacks and unreliable foreign arms deliveries.
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Former President Trump asserted that within approximately two weeks, it will become clear whether Russia genuinely seeks to end the war in Ukraine, with his envoy currently negotiating. He expressed disapproval of recent Russian missile attacks during these ongoing diplomatic efforts, even suggesting a personal meeting with Zelensky and Putin if needed. Russia has proposed a new round of peace talks in Istanbul on June 2, offering a memorandum outlining its perspective on the conflict’s origins. Trump’s assessment is based on ongoing negotiations and recent events, including a large-scale drone attack and a prisoner exchange.
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Zelenskyy believes Vladimir Putin, rather than himself, is the greater source of irritation for the White House due to Putin’s deceptive nature and unwillingness to negotiate genuinely. While acknowledging potential US disappointment with Ukraine, Zelenskyy notes the White House understands Putin’s obstruction to their desired resolution. He highlights the challenging yet viable nature of the US-Ukraine partnership, contrasting it with the perceived one-sidedness of any interaction with Putin. This assessment follows recent large-scale Russian strikes on Ukraine and escalating rhetoric between Russia and the US.
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John Q. Hosedrinker