zelenskyy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr zelenskyy met with Palantir CEO Alex Karp in Kyiv to explore AI advancements for defence and civilian needs. Ukraine's Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov highlighted the nation's use of technology in combat and against the Russian economy, aiming to deepen cooperation with the US firm for a technological edge in the ongoing conflict.

Ukraine announced a ceasefire starting May 5-6, prioritizing human life over Victory Day commemorations, with President zelenskyy criticizing Russia's focus on parades. Russia, however, declared its own truce from May 8-9, coinciding with WWII Victory Day, and warned of massive retaliation if Kyiv disrupts their celebrations.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr zelenskyy said that the forces have struck two Russian oil tankers near Novorossiysk port. This action highlights Ukraine's ongoing strategy to disrupt Russia's energy sector. Drone warfare has intensified, with Ukraine increasingly targeting Russian territory. Russia has also conducted extensive drone attacks across Ukraine. Diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire are ongoing.

US President Trump announced a three-day Russia-Ukraine ceasefire from May 9-11, hoping for a long-term peace deal and a prisoner exchange. Despite this, fighting persisted, with both sides reporting attacks. Ukraine accused Russia of continuing assaults, while Russia claimed to intercept numerous drones. The truce follows Russia's Victory Day, a proposal Kyiv had previously dismissed.

Marking Chernobyl's 40th anniversary, Ukraine's President zelenskyy accused Russia of "nuclear terrorism," citing drone activity near the plant and warning of man-made disasters. Meanwhile, Ukrainian drones struck a Russian fertilizer plant, causing a pipeline leak. Russia also launched numerous drones overnight, with Ukraine intercepting most.

Ukrainian President zelenskyy urged global leaders, including PM Modi, to pressure Putin to end the war, stating mediation alone is insufficient. He emphasized unified international action over compromise. Meanwhile, Ukraine is bolstering defence ties in the Middle East, signing drone cooperation agreements with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE.

By mid-2026, Russia's Ukraine invasion has transformed into a grinding conflict. Ukraine's successful drone warfare and long-range strikes on Russian infrastructure are reshaping the battlefield. Russia, adapting with infiltration tactics and glide bombs, faces a new, industrialized war of attrition. European aid bolsters Ukraine's defense, while diplomatic progress remains stalled.

BJP's Bengal win strengthens PM Modi’s hand in dealing with Bangladesh and with both the great powers – China and the US. Pakistan, too, will be particularly unsettled

In a landmark decision, the European Union has greenlit an impressive €90 billion loan to Ukraine alongside a new wave of sanctions targeting Russia, effectively breaking a prolonged deadlock. This vital financial support, designated for military and fiscal stability, follows Hungary and Slovakia's recent agreement to resume oil flows through a major pipeline.

Ukraine is showcasing remarkable resilience against Russia through its innovative defense industry. The nation is producing millions of drones, long-range missiles, and robotic systems. These advanced weapons allow Ukraine to strike deep behind enemy lines and preserve its soldiers. This technological prowess is enabling Ukraine to effectively counter a larger adversary, demonstrating a new model of national resistance.

From Vietnam War's collective voice to the disjointed anti-war stance in the following years, artistes' push back against global tension persists.