“Better to leave than to face the truth.” This is how former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Volodymyr Ohryzko explains US President Donald Trump’s behavior at the G7 summit on Ukraine, Hromadske reports.

“He has nothing to say to Zelenskyy. He can’t find a single argument to justify his defense of Putin. This is one of those situations where it’s easier to just leave,” the diplomat explains.

According to Ohryzko, all Ukraine can expect from Trump right now is weapons sales and intelligence sharing. Genuine support must come from Europe, but only if European leaders stop “being afraid of their own shadow.”

What happened in Ukraine today is yet another reproach to our European partners, he says.

“We need French or German fighter jets to shoot down missiles over Ukraine — just like the US shoots down Iranian missiles over Israel,” the diplomat adds.

He emphasizes that such action would not drag NATO into the war, as it would be an act of defense, not aggression.

“There isn’t a Russian sitting on every missile. These are aerial weapons flying into the territory of a country friendly to France, so they should be shot down,” he says.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy must raise this issue directly with allies during his visit to Canada, in his view.

“The question must be put bluntly. I believe Zelenskyy has to do it today, in Canada,” he concludes.

On 17 June, Ukraine’s capital and other cities were subjected to sheer terror. Russia deployed its every available aerial weapon to strike Kyiv, Odesa, and Zaporizhzhia, including hypersonic Kinzhal missiles, Kalibrs, cruise and ballistic missiles, and Shahed drones.

Read more: 

• How Ukraine can win, p.4: Just repeat what Putin says
• Russia bombs Kyiv and Iran targets Israel, Trump wants ceasefire — but only from Ukraine

It is time to say no to Russian resources. The G7 countries should completely stop purchasing energy from Russia, replacing it with Canadian alternatives, said John Kirton. He is the head of the G7 research group at the University of Toronto, UkrInform reports.

“It is necessary for the G7 to continue pressuring India to stop purchasing Russian oil,” the expert says.

But it is equally important for the G7 countries to completely abandon imports of Russian energy resources, such as oil, coal, gas, and uranium.

“Canada, which holds the fifth-largest oil reserves in the world and is among the top three uranium producers, can help,” Kirton continues.

He emphasizes that Canada “can supply the US with all necessary isotopes so they do not depend on Russia or even Kazakhstan.”

“Although Kazakhstan may ultimately be closer to us than to Russia,” the expert believes.

US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy plan to meet during the G7 summit. This meeting will be their first encounter since April, when they had a 15-minute conversation before Pope Francis’ funeral.

After that meeting, Trump stated that Russia had no justification for recent attacks on Ukrainian civilian areas and suggested that the Russian leader might not want to end the war. Following the meeting, there were talks about imposing new sanctions on Russia, but the US did not enact them.

After their conversation, Moscow launched the largest attack on Ukraine’s city of Kremenchuk, targeting an oil refinery and the thermal power plant. Witnesses say the skies over the town turned red during 30 strikes. Ukraine extinguished the fire for at least eight hours.

Putin calls to congratulate Trump on his birthday — then launches hypersonic missiles on small Ukrainian city in one of largest attacks of war

There is no peace because Russia refuses to end the war. On 16 June, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia of derailing all global efforts to achieve peace, speaking at a press conference in Vienna following talks with Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen, UNIAN reports. 

Zelenskyy emphasized that Kyiv remains open to diplomacy, but the Kremlin blocks every initiative.

“We’re doing everything we can to end this war… but there’s no ceasefire, no honest diplomacy, no lasting security. And that’s only because of Russia,” he said.

He called for increased pressure on Moscow to stop the bloodshed and destruction, adding that this was a key focus of his discussions in Vienna.

Zelenskyy urged the EU to adopt a strong 18th sanctions package and maintain existing restrictions, including the freeze on Russian assets.

According to the Ukrainian leader, President Van der Bellen expressed readiness to support peace efforts and provide “credible mediation” in any potential talks with Russia.

Zelenskyy also stressed the importance of preserving transatlantic unity.

“We all want the US–Europe alliance to stay strong. If it collapses, Europe will have to rapidly build up its defense industry, which takes big money and very little time,” he warned.

Finally, Zelenskyy announced plans to speak with US President Donald Trump about a new defense package Ukraine is ready to purchase.

In an interview with the American TV channel Newsmax, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that Russia has consistently supported Iran.

“Will the Russians help Iran? I think they always have. The question is whether they will openly support Iran,” Zelenskyy said.

He stressed that everything depends on a strong US position, backed by European support. Without it, Russia will understand that it can openly assist Iran, triggering a new wave of conflict in the Middle East.

The Ukrainian president also highlighted that a strong stance by Donald Trump could stop Russia’s plans to seize Ukraine.

“Trump can stop him. For that, Putin must lose money. Only then will he be unable to increase spending on his army,” he emphasized.

He added that tough sanctions are necessary.

“He is the president of the US. He must influence any aggressor in the world. Undoubtedly, Putin is one of the most dangerous,” the Ukrainian leader concluded.

Earlier, the US attempted to block European efforts to cut the G7 price cap on Russian oil from $60 to $45 per barrel, frustrating EU and UK attempts to ramp up pressure on Moscow’s war financing. 

Ukraine is preparing to launch serial production of its domestically developed ballistic missile known as Sapsan or Hrim-2, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed during a meeting with journalists, after unofficial media reports.

Zelenskyy confirms production plans, timeline unclear

During the press briefing on 13 June, Zelenskyy addressed the recent emergence of information regarding the Sapsan missile. The President noted that work is ongoing toward mass production but emphasized that other details have been classified:

“Now we’re working on developing the capability for mass production of the ballistic missile. When, how, in what quantity—I can’t say,” he stated, as reported by Fakty ICTV on 14 June.

Earlier, speaking to United24, Defense Express analyst Ivan Kyrychevskyi claimed that despite frequent references to the missile system by its former project names as Sapsan or Hrim-2, it does not currently have an official name. He stated that earlier labels were primarily used for export marketing to Saudi Arabia prior to Russia’s all-out war, and now the missile remains officially nameless.

First media report: Tests completed, production begins

Earlier on 13 June, Liga published an article by Valentyn Badrak, director of the Center for Army, Conversion, and Disarmament Studies. According to Badrak, the missile underwent successful combat testing in May 2025 and is now being transitioned into serial production.

Badrak emphasized the missile’s combat readiness and described it as “a large, powerful weapon,” noting that its warhead weighs 480 kilograms. He cited military sources who reported no remaining barriers to mass production, stating that coordination between the Defense Ministry and Ministry of Strategic Industries has been achieved.

Ukraine new ballistic system “Sapsan” is faster than US-made ATACMS

“Faster than ATACMS”

Badrak also referred to a key earlier test in July 2024, where the Sapsan demonstrated a speed of 5.2 Mach. He stated that this performance makes it faster than the US ATACMS and close in capability to the Russian Iskander missiles.

Top defense priority for Ukraine

The same day, Ukraine’s Deputy Defense Minister Anatoliy Klochko highlighted the strategic importance of the domestic missile program, stating,

“The issue of Ukrainian ballistics today is not first, second, or third—it’s out of line. It’s a top priority.”

He also said a great deal of work has already been completed in this area, with increased focus now being directed toward national ballistic capabilities.

Ukraine conducted another prisoner swap with Russia, returning home dozens of wounded, ill, and young defenders, many of whom had been held since 2022. Both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and POW HQ did not specify the exact number of POWs returned in this exchange. One of the photos shows at least 41 people.

Fourth exchange in one week

On 14 June 2025, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on his official Telegram channel that Ukraine had carried out the fourth prisoner exchange in a single week.

“We continue to bring our people back from Russian captivity,” Zelenskyy wrote.

He added that many of those released had been in Russian hands since 2022 and included servicemen from the Armed Forces, National Guard, State Border Guard Service, and the State Special Transport Service.

“We must free everyone and we’re working toward this so that no one is left to the enemy,” Zelenskyy stated, thanking all those contributing to the process.

Wounded, seriously ill, and young defenders returned

According to Ukraine’s Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War, this latest exchange was part of a broader deal focusing on releasing those who are wounded or seriously ill. It was carried out under agreements previously reached with Russia in Istanbul.

The returned soldiers include members of the Armed Forces, Air Assault Forces, Navy, Territorial Defense Forces, State Border Guard Service, National Guard, and the State Special Transport Service. The Coordination Headquarters emphasized that the majority had been in captivity since 2022, with many captured during the defense of Mariupol.

High number of officers and young servicemen among released

Most of the freed defenders reportedly were officers, while some were under the age of 25. They had fought on multiple fronts, including the Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, Luhansk, Kherson, Kharkiv, Sumy, and Kursk directions. Their release marks a significant development in Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to bring its soldiers home.

The Coordination Headquarters confirmed that all released defenders will undergo comprehensive medical examinations and receive physical and psychological rehabilitation. They will also be granted the full financial compensation due for the duration of their captivity.

2022 Mariupol Defense

The defense of Mariupol in 2022 resulted in heavy losses for Ukraine, with hundreds of servicemen captured after the fall of the Azovstal plant. Since then, Ukraine has conducted multiple prisoner swaps, often focusing on those with severe injuries or health conditions, facilitated through international negotiations.

Russia could reach the borders of Romania, a NATO member, and attack other countries if Europe fails to help defend Moldova. On 11 June, at the Ukraine–Southeastern Europe summit, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that after targeting Moldova, Moscow plans to occupy the Ukrainian port city of Odesa, UNIAN reports. 

According to Zelenskyy, Southeastern Europe and Ukraine are among Russia’s targets for provoking chaos in Europe. Moscow has already stirred unrest in the Balkans, attempted to manipulate public opinion in Romania, and has kept Moldova in poverty and instability for three decades in an effort to bring it under its control, he said. 

“If Europe loses Moldova this year, it will encourage Russia to interfere even more in your countries, seizing your resources, your sovereignty, and even your history,” Zelenskyy warned.

The Ukrainian leader stressed that Russia does not see Ukraine as a sovereign state, but rather as a heap of resources and a military platform for future invasions.

Putin’s Victory Day speech may reveal his next target in Ukraine

Regardless of what Putin believes, Zelenskyy said, European countries must put Russia in a position where the aggressor is forced to seek peace. He emphasized that this is entirely possible and depends on Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

“Air defense systems and drones are crucial. Another key tool is sanctions,” he claimed.

Zelenskyy explained that Ukraine needs stronger support, especially regarding Russian oil tankers and the aggressor’s financial sector.

“About the oil price cap: $45 per barrel is better than $60—that’s obvious, that’s true. But real peace will come with a cap of $30 per barrel,” he emphasized.

He also urged European countries to treat postwar security guarantees as a matter of practical necessity.

In an interview published on 12 June by German outlet Bild, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected reports of Russia’s large advances. He said the idea that Russia is winning the war is “a Russian narrative” and insisted Ukrainian forces have been repelling a renewed Russian push for nearly three weeks. The Russians are“not that successful, to say the least,” he added.

Zelenskyy dismissed the idea that recent drone strikes—up to 500 in number—allegedly are revenge for a Ukrainian operation Spiderweb that targeted Russian strategic bombers. He said Russia’s President Vladimir Putin is someone “looking for reasons to attack Ukraine. He simply does not want to end the war.”

Zelenskyy noted that the Russian population still supports Putin’s radical policies. “But he has to maintain the fire of information and hate,” Zelenskyy said. He argued that Putin frames his attacks as revenge to keep that support alive.

Russia’s two goals for fake diplomacy: avoid new sanctions and isolate Ukraine

According to Zelenskyy, the real reason for Moscow participation in Trump’s push for peace negotiations is to avoid new sanctions. He stated,

“It’s important for them to show Trump there’s a diplomatic bridge between Ukraine and Russia,” so that Russia can argue, “We are talking to each other! If sanctions are introduced, there will be no more talks.” He firmly added, Putin does not want peace.

Putin “gives the finger” to the entire world, Zelenskyy says after Trump’s call with Russian president

The second goal, Zelenskyy warned, is to sideline Europe and the US in talks and isolate Ukraine.

“A long war without partner support [for Ukraine]—for Putin that would be the perfect scenario,” he said. “A long war with partners and sanctions—he can’t survive that.”

Zelenskyy said he believes the former US president understands Russia’s dishonesty.

“President Trump sees that the Russian side is not completely open and honest about the war,” Zelenskyy told Bild. “I think that Russia is simply lying to Trump.”

Russia simply lying to Trump, Zelenskyy says

Zelenskyy calls for more sanctions against Russia

After months of military escalation, Zelenskyy emphasized the urgency of the new US sanctions package Trump has always threatened but has not yet implemented.

“Trump must introduce the sanctions so that Putin immediately says: ‘Let’s talk about ending the war,’” he said.

Zelenskyy acknowledged criticism of sanctions but argued delays gave Putin time to adjust. “This allowed him to adapt,” Zelenskyy said, adding that the economy and especially the defense industry had managed to recover.

Peace talks or war? Russia may choose both to avoid Western sanctions

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia is deceiving Donald Trump and warned that the US president’s response to those lies could determine the future of the Russo-Ukrainian war.

In an interview published by Politico on 12 June, Zelenskyy stated:

“Russia is simply lying to Trump,” he said, adding that “most heads of state and government share my opinion,” expressing hope that the US understands the extent of Russian disinformation.

Zelenskyy said the leverage to end the war rests with Trump, noting that “Putin understands nothing but strength, and America has that strength.” He also emphasized that the effectiveness of sanctions and the speed of decision-making “depends on” Trump.

Trump diplomacy’s new low: Rubio congratulates Russians on Russia Day

Ongoing war, weak peace efforts, lack of sanctions

Recent low-level Russia-Ukraine talks in Istanbul have made little progress, while Russia continues its escalated attacks on Ukraine. Zelenskyy said Trump expressed doubts about Moscow’s sincerity after a recent phone call with Putin. Trump bizarrely compared Russia and Ukraine to two squabbling children and said the deadline for more sanctions exists “in his brain.”

When asked if Trump’s opinions shift depending on whom he speaks with, Zelenskyy answered, “I don’t know,” but reiterated: “Russia is not sincere.”

Zelenskyy said Russia’s ongoing offensive is “not very successful,” adding that the Kremlin has failed to achieve its goals. He claimed Moscow is trying to buy time while its economy suffers. He believes stronger sanctions could further deplete Russia’s military capabilities and reduce attacks on Ukraine.

US repeats Ukraine-Russia talks mantra despite Russia’s rejection of ceasefires

Western support critical to Ukraine’s survival

According to Zelenskyy, Ukraine’s survival hinges on continued support from Western nations. He warned that an American withdrawal would be “a perfect scenario” for Putin and could hand victory to Russia.

Zelenskyy acknowledged personal doubt, referencing Winston Churchill’s struggles during World War II.

“I have no fewer doubts than anyone else in Ukraine. But the difference is that I am the president,” he said. “So until the end of the war, I will never show any moments of weakness. And I will never share my dark days with anyone.”

Putin “gives the finger” to the entire world, Zelenskyy says after Trump’s call with Russian president

Ukraine began a multi-stage prisoner exchange with Russia on 9 June, with the first group of Ukrainian servicemen under 25 years old returning home from captivity.

“Ukrainians are returning home from Russian captivity. Today an exchange began that will continue in several stages over the coming days,” President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Telegram.

The Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War reports that final numbers of released prisoners will be disclosed after the completion of the exchange process for security reasons.

The first group consists of wounded and severely wounded prisoners, as well as those under 25 years old. Among the released are representatives of the Naval Forces, Ground Forces, Territorial Defense Forces, Air Forces, Airborne Assault Forces, Border Guard Service, National Guard, and State Special Transport Service. All freed personnel are enlisted soldiers and sergeants.

“Among the categories of those we are returning now are the wounded and severely wounded, as well as those under 25 years old. The process is quite complex, with many sensitive details, and negotiations continue virtually daily,” Zelenskyy said.

Defenders of Mariupol who spent more than three years in captivity are among those released, according to the Coordination Headquarters.

The exchange implements agreements reached during negotiations in Istanbul on 2 June, where Ukraine and Russia agreed to return “6000 for 6000” bodies of fallen soldiers and exchange “all for all” severely wounded and young servicemen aged 18 to 25.

The Coordination Headquarters confirmed this represents only the first part of a large-scale exchange that will continue within the framework of reached agreements. Work also continues on repatriating the bodies of Ukrainian military personnel killed defending the homeland.

Returned defenders will receive full support, including document restoration, payment of due military compensation for the entire period in captivity, one-time assistance, and medical rehabilitation courses, the Coordination Headquarters assured.

The exchange addresses specific categories of prisoners of war, particularly those under 25, severely wounded, and seriously ill captives.

Russia had spread false information on June 6 about the alleged start of repatriation activities, then claimed Ukraine “refused to take the bodies of its citizens.” The Coordination Headquarters emphasized that the aggressor state speculates on sensitive topics while preparation for the exchange continues.

Zelenskyy previously reported that of the 6000 military bodies Russia wants to transfer to Ukraine, only 15% are identified.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that Russian truck drivers who unknowingly transported Ukrainian drones into Russia had no knowledge of their cargo’s true purpose during the large-scale attack on Russian military airfields.

Operation Spiderweb, carried out by Ukraine’s Security Service, was a large-scale surprise Ukrainian drone strike on five Russian airbases that involved 117 drones covertly smuggled into Russia and launched from hidden compartments in trucks. The attack destroyed or damaged over 40 strategic bombers, amounting to about $7 bn in losses and about one-third of Russia’s long-range strike fleet used for attacks on Ukraine.

“They didn’t know anything. They just did their job,” Zelenskyy told ABC News correspondent Martha Raddatz in an exclusive interview airing on This Week with George Stephanopoulos.

The drivers transported what they believed were mobile cottages and other containers, unaware that the structures contained drones equipped to assault Russian airfields and damage military hardware worth billions of dollars.

Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukrainian Security Service used exclusively domestic weapons for the operation.

“I wanted very much to use only what we produce and to have the separation [be] very clear,” the Ukrainian president said.

Operation web details

On 1 June, Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) conducted Operation Web, targeting Russian military airfields at Olenya, Belaya, Dyagilevo, and Ivanovo with drone strikes. The operation targeted Russian aircraft including A-50 early warning planes, Tu-95 strategic bombers, and Tu-22M3 supersonic bombers.

The operation reportedly damaged 41 Russian aircraft, representing 34% of Russia’s strategic cruise missile carriers stationed at their home bases.

The operation required over 18 months of preparation, according to SBU sources. Ukrainian intelligence first smuggled FPV drones into Russia, followed by mobile wooden houses. The drones were later concealed under the roofs of these structures, which were opened remotely at the start of the operation to launch the aircraft.

Aftermath and investigation

All individuals who assisted in organizing the operation have been reportedly evacuated from Russia. However, Russian authorities have issued a warrant for 37-year-old Ukrainian-born Artem Timofeev, allegedly the owner of the trucks used to transport the drones.

The Russian Telegram channel Baza, linked to Russian law enforcement, reported interrogations of truck drivers who launched drones during the SBU’s large-scale attack on Russian airfields. The drivers reportedly believed they were transporting prefabricated houses and identified the truck owner as a man named Artem.

Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukrainian secret services extracted all operation participants from Russian territory following the successful mission.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will likely meet with US President Donald Trump during the G7 summit in Canada, according to the head of the President’s Office, Andriy Yermak. The summit takes place from June 15-17 in Kananaskis, Alberta.

Yermak revealed that a recent Ukrainian delegation visit to Washington served as preparation for the anticipated meeting between the two presidents.

“Our visit was preparation including for a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and President Trump on the margins of the G7 meeting in Canada, which will take place in 10 days. This was one of the important steps in preparing for this conversation,” Yermak said.

The Ukrainian delegation, headed by First Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, met with approximately half of the Senate members and leaders of key committees in both chambers of the US Congress. During these meetings, Ukrainian officials explained Ukraine’s position on the war and sanctions against Russia.

According to Yermak, there is “clear understanding” in Congress of the need to support Ukraine. The delegation  reportedly detailed Kremlin’s true intentions regarding the continuation of the war to American partners.

The previous meeting between Zelenskyy and Trump occurred on 26 April in the Vatican, when dozens of world leaders attended the funeral of Pope Francis.

Regarding military assistance, Yermak said  that Ukraine is prepared to purchase weapons from the United States, though Congress believes Washington can continue providing military aid to Kyiv. The delegation emphasized Ukraine’s readiness for defense procurement while lawmakers expressed support for continued assistance.

The G7 summit represents the first formal meeting opportunity for Zelenskyy and Trump since the latter’s inauguration as US president in January 2025.

Russian forces launched an overnight air assault on 5 June using over 100 drones and a ballistic missile against Ukraine, and continued ground and artillery attacks. Russian strikes killed at least eight civilians, including a baby, and injured dozens across Ukraine, according to local authorities.

Mass aerial attack

According to Ukraine’s Air Force, Russia used 103 Shahed-type drones and one Iskander-M ballistic missile in its latest assault from Russian territory and Crimea’s occupied zone. The main directions of attack included Chernihiv, Kharkiv, and Odesa oblasts. Air defenses neutralized 74 drones—28 shot down and 46 jammed or lost. Impacts from the airstrikes were confirmed in 16 locations across Ukraine.

The Air Force’s data suggest that the missile and at least 29 Russian drones may have reached their targets.

Civilians killed in Pryluky

In Pryluky, Chernihiv Oblast, Russia struck with at least six Shahed drones, for some reason referred to by their Russian designation as “Geran” by Regional Military Administration head Vyacheslav Chaus.

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that the fatal strike destroyed the home of a rescuer, killing his wife, daughter, and grandson.

“This is already the 632nd child killed during the full-scale war,” Zelenskyy said.

Large fires broke out in residential areas. The State Emergency Service reported two detached houses, two garages, one outbuilding, and a car were destroyed.

Kharkiv: targeted residential buildings

Kharkiv’s Slobidskyi district was hit by seven Russian drones, with a total of 16 explosive drones targeting Kharkiv Oblast. Additionally, the region was targeted by an Iskander-M Russian missile, two Kh-35, and one more unidentified missile. Mayor Ihor Terekhov and Oblast head Oleh Syniehubov reported 19 injured, including a pregnant woman, a 93-year-old, and four children, aged 7, 9,  and 13. Additionally, a 38-year-old man was injured in Izium, Kharkiv Oblast, after an explosion of an unidentified device.

Terekhov stated:

“This is not a strike on military targets. This is deliberate terror against residential areas and ordinary Kharkiv residents.”

Seven apartment buildings were damaged, with drones hitting 17th and 2nd floors directly. Fires erupted in apartments and vehicles.

Odesa Oblast: schools and clinics damaged

Russia struck Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi district in Odesa Oblast with drones, damaging a family medicine clinic, a children’s creativity center, and a lyceum school. Local authorities reported no casualties. Fires were extinguished by emergency services. Oblast head Oleh Kiper said law enforcement is documenting Russia’s actions as war crimes.

Sumy Oblast: children among injured

Sumy Oblast authorities confirmed injuries to two civilians over the past 24 hours: a 42-year-old man and a 13-year-old girl. Nearly 100 Russian strikes hit 35 towns and villages, including the use of more than 20 guided bombs and 30 VOG grenades dropped from drones.

Kherson: airstrikes kill two

Kherson Oblast authorities reported two killed and 10 injured over the past 24 hours. This morning, Russian forces bombed central Kherson with four KAB bombs, causing additional injuries to a 74-year-old, 68-year-old, and a 44-year-old man.

One apartment block’s entrance was destroyed, and nearby buildings damaged. The strike targeted the Kherson Oblast Administration building.

Four people trapped in a basement were rescued unharmed.

Earlier, a 66-year-old man suffered a blast injury in Bilozerka and will receive outpatient treatment.

Civilian casualties in Zaporizhzhia, Dnipropetrovsk, and Donetsk oblasts

In Zaporizhzhia Oblast, two were injured during 428 Russian strikes across 14 settlements, including Vasylivskyi district, local authorities reported.

In Nikopol, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, a 71-year-old man was severely wounded by a Russian drone-dropped munition.

The Donetsk Oblast Military Administration reported an additional fatality and five more injuries from Russian attacks on 4 June.

“Terrorism”

President Zelenskyy condemned the Russian strikes as acts of terrorism:

“This is another massive attack by Russian terrorists who kill our people every night. We expect action from the US, Europe, and everyone who can help stop this.”

He called for further sanctions and international pressure, stating that peace can only come through force and determination.

Related:

• Putin “gives the finger” to the entire world, Zelenskyy says after Trump’s call with Russian president
• 95 Russian drones target Ukraine overnight: Kharkiv hit for 90 minutes straight
• ISW: Russia continues to want Ukraine’s “complete destruction.” Russian missile stockpile only grows.
• Russia kills civilians in central Sumy with Tornado-S cluster munitions. “Hypersonic” Kinzhal hits near Mykolaiv (updated)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a forceful message on 5 June, highlighting the sheer scale of Russian attacks and warning global leaders that inaction emboldens the Kremlin.

In his 5 June statement, Zelenskyy revealed that since the beginning of the year, Russia has launched nearly 27,700 aerial bombs, approximately 11,200 Shahed-type explosive drones, around 9,000 other attack UAVs, and over 700 missiles, including ballistic ones.

“And that’s in less than half a year,” he noted.

He accused Russia of restructuring its entire state, society, and economy to conduct mass killings in other countries with impunity.

“This is the pace of Russian strikes, and they deliberately set this tempo from the very first days of the full-scale war,” he said.

“Russia is giving the finger to the entire world”

Reacting to Trump’s announcement of his phone call with Putin, Zelenskyy criticized ongoing diplomatic failures.

“Many have spoken with Russia at various levels. But none of these talks have brought a reliable peace,” he stated, arguing that Putin continues to feel “impunity. Even after all of Russia’s horrific attacks, he is reportedly preparing yet more so-called ‘responses’.”

He warned that delays in diplomacy only fuel further aggression.

“With every new strike, with every delay of diplomacy, Russia is giving the finger to the entire world — to all those who still hesitate to increase pressure on it,” Zelenskyy said.

Warning against weakness and silence

Zelenskyy said the only way to stop Putin is by demonstrating strength.

“If the world reacts weakly to Putin’s threats, he interprets it as a readiness to turn a blind eye to his actions,” he said. “When he does not feel strength and pressure, but instead senses weakness, he always commits new crimes.”

According to the Ukrainian president, weak responses amount to silent permission for future atrocities. He thanked all international actors “who tell the killer that he will be held accountable” and stressed that “Russian missiles and bombs must stop taking innocent lives.”

“If the powerful do not stop Putin, it means they share responsibility with him,” Zelenskyy said. “And if they want to stop him but cannot, then Putin will no longer see them as powerful.”

Trump: Putin “will have to respond”

On the same day, Donald Trump stated on Truth Social that Putin warned of retaliation after Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Russian bomber airfields.

“President Putin did say, and very strongly, that he will have to respond to the recent attack on the airfields,” Trump wrote, offering no criticism of Russia’s stated intent to escalate attacks on Ukrainian civilians.

The highly successful Ukrainian Operation Spiderweb targeting Russia’s strategic bomber fleet took place on 1 June, but Trump remained silent about it until referencing Putin’s threats of retaliation.

In the cold December of 2023, Russia launched the most intense massive missile and drone strikes on Ukraine since the start of the war.

The most devastating came on 29 December, when Russia fired around 158 aerial targets, including various types of missiles. Approximately 55 people were killed, and over 170 were injured.

That same month, Ukraine began planning its largest-ever operation against Russian aircraft — and activated it in June 2025, launching hundreds of drones from trucks prepared by covert agents.

“The planning, organization, and every detail were perfectly executed. It’s safe to say this was a truly unique operation,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy explained.

A senior US defense official told CNN that Ukraine’s attack showed a level of sophistication that they had not seen before.

The official added that US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth received regular updates on the operation during his visit to Joint Base Andrews on 1 June but had not yet spoken to his Ukrainian counterparts.

This chain of events unfolded as Russia and Ukraine returned to tense peace talks in Istanbul, shadowed by uncertainty. Ahead of the talks, US President Donald Trump had voiced frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin’s resistance to advancing the negotiations.

Putin had proposed “direct talks” in Turkiye earlier in the month but failed to appear, even after Zelenskyy agreed to the meeting. In the end, both countries sent only low-level delegations.

These aircraft rained death on Ukrainian cities — now they’re burning on their own airfields. On 1 June, Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) carried out a stunning special operation dubbed “Spiderweb,” destroying or disabling at least 41 Russian aircraft involved in massive airstrikes against Ukraine.

“There are aircraft that were burned, and others damaged beyond repair. For a long time, they won’t be able to carry out terrorist acts,” said Ukrainian Air Force spokesman Yurii Ihnat.

Since 2022, the Russians have launched 2,437 Kh-101, Kh-555, and Kh-55 cruise missiles from these bombers, of which 1,916 were intercepted. However, more than 500 reached their targets.

“Russia also used Tu-22M3 bombers with Kh-22 and Kh-32 missiles. The Kh-22 is known as an ‘aircraft carrier killer’… the enemy used them to strike major cities. There were many casualties,” Ihnat adds. 

Russia has also launched over 400 Kh-22 missiles, and only a few were intercepted by air defenses. The missile carries a warhead weighing over 900 kg and is among the most powerful in Russia’s arsenal.

For instance, in 2025, Russia killed 14 civilians, including two children, with such missiles, demolishing a five-storey residential building in Poltava. No military targets were located in the area. 

In 2024, a missile of the same type broke a huge hole in the residential building in Dnipro, ruining a driveway and killing almost every civilian in it. 

Ukraine’s air defense downed 25 out of 38 Russian missiles during massive attack

Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked SBU Chief Vasyl Maliuk for the operation’s results. He noted that the SBU’s operational office in Russian territory was located right next to a regional FSB headquarters. In total, 117 drones were used in the operation.

Chairman of the Ukrainian Parliament, Ruslan Stefanchuk, has called Ukraine’s unique special operation targeting Russian airfields “a modern version of the Budapest Memorandum.”

“Meticulous work. Impressive results,” Ruslan Stefanchuk writes on social media, assessing the scale of the Web operation on Russian territory.

Thanks to President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Head of the Security Service of Ukraine Vasyl Maliuk, and everyone involved in this operation for ensuring the non-nuclear status of the aggressor state, Stefanchuk adds.

He emphasizes that for those fighting for their land, no goals are too distant.

On 1 June, the Security Service of Ukraine and Defense Intelligence conducted the unprecedented “Web” operation, during which FPV-drones were brought to Russia in trucks and released from them to target four Russian airfields: Byelaya, Dyagilevo, Olenya, and Ivanovo.

As a result, over 40 Russian aircraft were damaged, including the A-50 reconnaissance plane and strategic bombers Tu-95 and Tu-22M3.

Preparation for the operation took over one and a half years. President Zelenskyy personally oversaw the operation, while Head of the SBU Vasyl Maliuk and his team managed its execution. 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said neither Ukraine nor its partners have clear information about Russia’s agenda for upcoming negotiations in Istanbul scheduled for 2 June, calling the situation “not very serious.”

“As of now, there is no clear information about what the Russians are going to Istanbul with. We don’t have it, Türkiye doesn’t have it, the USA doesn’t have it either, nor do other partners. And so far this looks not very serious,” Zelenskyy said in his evening address on 31 May.

The comments come ahead of a second round of peace talks proposed by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. After the first round of direct talks on 16 May in Istanbul, Russia and Ukraine agreed to prepare memorandums detailing their conditions for peace. Lavrov announced that the Russian delegation would present its list of ceasefire conditions in Türkiye.

Ukraine has already transmitted its demands to Russia and called on Moscow to do the same. However, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov labeled Kyiv’s request as “unconstructive.”

Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine is preparing new diplomatic steps with European and American partners. The president maintains daily contact with allies, he said.

“Everyone in the world wants diplomacy to work and for there to be a real ceasefire,” Zelenskyy said. “Everyone wants serious peace, and Russia must go for it. This is exactly what the agenda of meetings should be. We gave our agenda. We hope that the American side will be decisive on sanctions to help peace.”

Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak confirmed on 30 May that Ukraine is ready to participate in the next meeting with the Russian delegation in Istanbul.

Kyiv said it was committed to the search for peace, but that it was waiting for a memorandum from the Russian side setting out their proposals.

The upcoming talks follow the first direct high-level negotiations between the two countries since 2022. The Russian delegation said after the meeting that it was satisfied with the talks and that negotiations will continue with each side presenting its detailed vision for a ceasefire.

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke by phone with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy this week, urging Ukraine and Russia to resume presidential negotiations. The call comes just days ahead of a planned round of peace talks in Istanbul on 2 June.

While Moscow has proposed the meeting, Kyiv has not confirmed its participation and continues to insist that Russia publish its proposed peace terms in advance.

Erdogan calls for direct presidential talks “without delay“

According to a statement from Erdogan’s office, the Turkish president told Zelenskyy that direct talks between the presidents of Ukraine and Russia would benefit the peace process and should take place “without further delay.”

Zelenskyy confirmed the call on social media, saying they discussed the potential second round of talks in Istanbul and the conditions under which Ukraine would agree to attend.

“We both agree that this meeting cannot and should not be empty,” Zelenskyy wrote.

He added that they also discussed the possibility of a four-party summit involving the leaders of Ukraine, Russia, Türkiye, and the United States.

Zelensky presses for transparency before talks

Zelenskyy has previously proposed a trilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump.

Ahead of the first Istanbul meeting, Zelenskyy invited Putin to hold direct talks, but Russia instead sent a delegation led by presidential advisor Vladimir Medinsky.

Zelenskyy said he also reviewed the outcome of that earlier meeting with Erdogan, noting that its only result was a prisoner exchange.

“A ceasefire must be the basis for further progress toward peace,” he wrote.

An uncertain path to Istanbul

Erdogan echoed that view, saying that discussions around a potential ceasefire at the upcoming talks could help lay the groundwork for peace. He also emphasized the need for strong delegations from both sides.

Ukraine has not formally confirmed it will attend the June 2 talks, though officials in Kyiv say they remain open to negotiations in any format.

Ukrainian authorities continue to call on Moscow to publish its negotiating terms ahead of time, a request the Kremlin has so far refused.

US Senators Lindsey Graham (R–SC) and Richard Blumenthal (D–CT) met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv this week to reaffirm bipartisan support for Ukraine and promote a Senate bill proposing significant new sanctions on Russia.

The senators, known for their strong backing of Ukraine, are co-authors of a bipartisan bill that would introduce major new sanctions on Russia and impose 500% tariffs on countries continuing to import Russian oil, gas, and other critical resources.

Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for their efforts, stating, “We have a shared understanding that Russia is making a mockery of diplomacy—pretending to negotiate while preparing new offensives and rejecting all ceasefire proposals.”

Senator Blumenthal emphasized the bill’s intent to send a strong message to buyers of Russian energy: “The Senate’s response will be clear—500% tariffs on anyone buying Russian oil, gas, or petrochemicals. That includes China and India, which currently buy most of these exports.”

Senator Graham added that the Senate could begin reviewing the bill next week, highlighting its broad support with backing from 82 US senators.

Kyiv pushes for stronger global pressure ahead of talks

The visit comes as Ukraine and Russia prepare for a new round of peace talks scheduled for June 2 in Istanbul. While Moscow has proposed the meeting, Ukraine has not confirmed its attendance and is demanding that Russia publish its proposed peace terms in advance.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha warned that Moscow continues to use diplomatic platforms to delay rather than negotiate, and said Kyiv would not attend “on blind terms.” The last round of talks, held in mid-May, led to a major prisoner exchange but little progress toward a lasting ceasefire.

International observers are watching closely, as Kyiv insists that without serious Russian concessions, negotiations will remain superficial.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said a meeting between Russian leader Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is possible.

The meeting can only happen as a result of agreements between delegations from both sides, Russian propaganda agencies RIA Novosti and TASS reported, citing Peskov.

This announcement follows 16 May trilateral negotiations, which took place in Istanbul between delegations from Ukraine, the United States and Türkiye. The same day saw a meeting between Ukrainian and Russian delegations with Türkiye’s participation. These became the first direct negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow since 2022.

“There are no changes in the position regarding the fundamental possibility of such a meeting,” Peskov claimed. “But such a meeting should be the result of specific agreements of two delegations in various directions.”

Peskov also said that no decisions have been made about the location for the next round of negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. The location must be convenient for both sides, he said.

The comments follow Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s statement to journalists that he is ready for a meeting between the leaders of Ukraine, Russia and the United States in any format.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Russia will insist on canceling “discriminatory laws” regarding restrictions on the Russian language at the next round of talks with Ukraine. Russia will also demand Ukraine’s non-bloc and nuclear-free status, Lavrov said. The date for the next round will be announced soon, according to Lavrov.

The Russian side refused to consider the Holy See as a venue for “peace negotiations” with Ukraine. Russia cites EU sanctions as one reason for this refusal.

US President’s special envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg told Fox News that the United States received a list of conditions from Kyiv for ending the war. The US now awaits such a list from Russia, Kellogg said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Berlin on 28 May, with his plane landing at Schönefeld Airport, according to Ukrinform.

The visit comes as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz seeks to discuss potential steps for further technical negotiations between Ukraine and Russia during their personal meeting.

The trip has sparked renewed speculation about possible delivery of Taurus missiles. These German cruise missiles can strike targets at distances of 500 kilometers. Before becoming chancellor, Merz signaled he would overturn his predecessor Olaf Scholz’s ban on delivering the missiles to Ukraine.

Kyiv has called upon Germany to provide the weapons to strike targets deep inside Russian territory. Scholz had ruled out the move due to escalation fears. Merz has not yet approved the deliveries. The Taurus missile policy has become a point of contention between the CDU/CSU and their Social Democratic coalition partners.

The German chancellor declared earlier this week that Berlin and other Western partners have lifted all range restrictions on arms provided to Ukraine. Some viewed this as a signal of an incoming policy change on Taurus missiles.

On 26 May, Merz said that weapons supplied by Germany to Ukraine no longer face range restrictions for use against Russian territory. He clarified that the US, Britain, France and Germany lifted restrictions on Ukraine’s long-range strikes against Russia several months ago.

German Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil responded that the government coalition had made no new agreements about changing course on lifting restrictions for Ukraine’s long-range strikes on Russian territory.

Taurus missiles represent the only long-range German weapons Ukraine has requested from Germany. Ukraine previously received long-range missiles from the US, UK, and France. These included ATACMS, Storm Shadow, and SCALP missiles. Ukraine was initially permitted to deploy them only against Russian military forces in occupied Ukrainian territories.

In late 2024, the Biden administration and other allies eased the restrictions. This allowed Ukraine to use long-range missiles against Russian military targets on Russian territory.

Germany has been Ukraine’s leading military donor on the continent. Its support has become more crucial for Kyiv as US backing grows increasingly uncertain under President Donald Trump.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia is working to build capacity for producing 300-350 drones per day. He made the statement during a meeting with journalists.

This announcment comes after Ukraine experienced Russian attack with 439 Shahed-type drones on 26 May, an all-time record. In response, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has ordered separate funding to be allocated to Ukraine’s ballistic missile program to accelerate the production of ultra-fast missiles. 

On 27 May, Zelenskyy met with journalists, revealing that Russia is preparing for production of 300–350 drones per day.

“This is their real situation. They received a task to have 500 per day. I don’t think they have this,“ the president said, according to Suspilne.

Zelenskyy did not rule out that Russia could accumulate stocks and launch up to 1,000 drones against Ukraine on certain days.

“I don’t accept the figure of 1,000, although we must understand that they can accumulate for several days, and then there will be such a day. You can’t say this won’t happen,” he explained.

The president described a recent successful Ukrainian operation using large numbers of drones. Ukraine struck simultaneously with 400 small drones and destroyed more than 40 pieces of equipment at once, according to Zelenskyy.

“We took such a step. It was used exclusively by the military on the battlefield. And we will demonstrate to them many times more than this operation,” he said.

Ukrainian forces are using Mirage and F-16 aircraft to shoot down Russian drones, Zelenskyy said. Ukraine is also developing drone interceptors that can fight unmanned aerial vehicles at high altitude.

Ukraine has the technology but needs funding to scale up production, according to Zelenskyy. He cited Germany as a potential source of financing for interceptor production.

“I say that I have a range of questions for Germany. And one of them is financing interceptors, financing domestic production. We spend more than we planned. Because everyone is developing, the ‘Russians’ are developing, and our new technologies are appearing,” he said.

The German government has explicitly stated earlier that it will not provide fighter jets to Ukraine, citing a lack of available F-16s and the complexity of training and logistical support required for different aircraft types. The Mirage 2000 jets have been supplied to Ukraine by France, as part of a military aid package announced by French President Emmanuel Macron in June 2024, with the first jets arriving in Ukraine in February 2025.

Zelesnkyy also said during the meeting that Ukraine can already launch up to 100 long-range drones daily. With partner support, Ukraine could match Russia’s drone production levels.

“I think Ukraine also needs to have a thousand drones. By the way, long-range drones, which are complex – we can use 100 per day. And we will have the same as the ‘Russians’, 300–500 per day. We are very close to this. The question is not about production capabilities. The question is financial,” Zelenskyy emphasized.

In the early hours of 26 May, Russia launched what Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described as the “largest drone attack since the start of the full-scale war.” A total of 355 explosive and decoy drones and 9 air-launched cruise missiles targeted Ukraine from various directions including Bryansk, Kursk, and occupied Crimea, according to the Air Force. The air assault targeted factories and residential areas in multiple cities, injuring a teenager in Odesa. Other Russian attacks killed four and injured at least 17 Ukrainian civilians, according to local authorities and Ukraine’s Emergency Service.

Ukraine’s Air Force reported intercepting all 9 Kh-101 missiles and neutralizing 288 drones, using a combination of aviation, air defense missile systems, electronic warfare, and mobile fire groups. Despite these efforts, drone impacts were recorded in five locations, and debris fell in ten areas.

Figures from the Air Force indicate that over 60 Russian drones may have reached their targets — marking a notably lower interception rate compared to previous attacks.

Trump slams Putin as “crazy” after deadly Russian attack, but also blames Zelenskyy and Biden

Kharkiv Oblast: Explosions, fires, and casualties

According to Suspilne Kharkiv, 13 explosions were heard starting at 00:33 in Kharkiv. Kharkiv and its suburbs were under Russian drone attack, confirmed by Oleh Syniehubov, head of Kharkiv Oblast Military Administration (OVA). In Vasyshcheve near Kharkiv, a private enterprise caught fire after being hit by drones, as reported by the State Emergency Service.

While not attributing any casualties to the Shahed drone assault, Syniehubov stated that over the past 24 hours, other Russian strikes on six settlements in Kharkiv Oblast killed two women, 84 and 58, and injured a 60-year-old man and two women aged 76 and 68. 

Kyiv: Third night of aerial terror

According to Kyiv’s City Military Administration, Kyiv was attacked for the third consecutive night. A six-hour air raid saw damage in Dniprovskyi and Desnianskyi districts, including shattered windows in a residential building and drone fragments hitting a garage and a restaurant area.

Officials reported no injuries.

Russia’s massive missile and drone assault kills at least 12 civilians, injures 52, between two prisoner swaps

Odesa Oblast: Teenager injured, homes damaged

Odesa’s OVA and Emergency Service confirmed that drones caused the destruction of a detached home and fires in Velikodolynske. Several private homes, outbuildings, and vehicles were also damaged.

A 14-year-old boy was injured, suffering leg wounds, and received on-site medical treatment.

Khmelnytskyi Oblast: Missiles and drones hit Starokostiantyniv area

In the Starokostiantyniv community, hosting one of Ukraine’s airbases, Russia used a combined missile and drone strike, according to Khmelnytskyi Oblast head Serhii Tiurin.

Though no civilians were hurt, four enterprises suffered damage to warehouses, workshops, and admin buildings, while 18 residential homes, one outbuilding, and a power line were damaged.

Zaporizhzhia: Two injured in Yurkyvka

Zaporizhzhia’s Yurkyvka village was shelled by Russian forces on 26 May, said oblast head Ivan Fedorov. A 60-year-old woman and a 52-year-old man were injured and received medical assistance. A detached house was destroyed in the attack.

Sumy: One dead, one wounded in artillery strike

Russian artillery hit Kindrativka in Sumy’s Khotin community, killing a 48-year-old man and injuring a 52-year-old civilian, who was treated at the scene, the Oblast Administration reported.

Donetsk Oblast: Six civilians injured

On 25 May, six civilians were injured in Donetsk Oblast due to Russian attacks, regional officials confirmed.

Russia attacks Ukraine with record 273 drones, leaving one dead, multiple injured in Kyiv Oblast

Kherson: Civilian deaths and injuries

Between the mornings of 25 and 26 May, one person was killed and four others wounded in Kherson Oblast, according to its administration.

At around 10:00 this morning, a drone strike in Kherson’s Korabelnyi district injured a 46-year-old woman, who suffered a blast injury and concussion, and was treated as an outpatient.

Poland scrambles jets as precaution

Due to Russian air activity over Ukraine, Poland’s Armed Forces deployed Polish and allied aircraft, warning of increased noise over southeastern Poland.

The operational command called it the second consecutive “very intense night” for their air defense systems.

Zelenskyy: Political message, not military strategy

President Zelenskyy commented that the sheer scale of the Russian air attack had “no military logic”, arguing it was instead a political signal.

“Only the feeling of total impunity can allow Russia to strike like this,” he said.

The Ukrainian President called on international partners to increase sanctions and block Russian oil trade and financial flows to deprive Moscow of its war resources.

“This is how Putin shows his contempt for a world that puts more effort into “dialogue” with him than into applying pressure. Like any criminal, Russia can only be restrained by force. Only through strength — the strength of the United States, the strength of Europe, the strength of all nations that value life — can these attacks be fully stopped and real peace achieved,” Zelenskyy said.

US President Donald Trump responded to a deadly Russian missile and drone attack on Ukraine, which killed at least 12 civilians on 25 May, by publicly denouncing Russian President Vladimir Putin and considering sanctions. However, Trump also criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and President Joe Biden, reiterating the war would ostensibly not have started under his leadership.

According to Sky News, Trump spoke to journalists late on 25 May and stated,

“I don’t know what the hell happened to Putin.”

Russia’s massive missile and drone assault kills at least 12 civilians, injures 52, between two prisoner swaps

He added that Putin is “killing a lot of people.”

“I’ve known him a long time. I always gotten along with him. But he’s sending rockets into cities and killing people, and I don’t like it.” Trump continued, “I don’t like what Putin is doing. Not even a little bit. He’s killing people. And something happened to this guy, and I don’t like it.”

When asked, he confirmed he is “absolutely” considering sanctions against Russia.

In the wake of the massive air assault, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy denounced Washington’s “silence.” Later, Trump’s envoy Keith Kellogg condemned the attack without mentioning Russia or the Russian leadership.

No sanctions, just peace talks: Trump tells EU leaders Putin won’t end war, scraps new sanctions

Trump calls Putin crazy

In a post published on Truth Social early on 26 May 2025, Trump escalated his tone, writing:

“I’ve always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia, but something has happened to him. He has gone absolutely CRAZY! He is needlessly killing a lot of people, and I’m not just talking about soldiers. Missiles and drones are being shot into Cities in Ukraine, for no reason whatsoever.”

He continued:

“I’ve always said that he wants ALL of Ukraine, not just a piece of it, and maybe that’s proving to be right, but if he does, it will lead to the downfall of Russia!“

Despite the condemnation of Putin’s actions, Trump went on to criticize President Zelenskyy, stating:

“Likewise, President Zelenskyy is doing his Country no favors by talking the way he does. Everything out of his mouth causes problems, I don’t like it, and it better stop.”

He also described the war as one he allegedly would have prevented:

“This is a War that would never have started if I were President. This is Zelenskyy’s, Putin’s, and Biden’s War, not ‘Trump’s.’ I am only helping to put out the big and ugly fires, that have been started through Gross Incompetence and Hatred.”

Trump’s misconception about Russia is dangerous, Ukrainian scholar says

In response to Trump’s remarks, Ukrainian scholar Valerii Pekar, author of over 250 articles on management, marketing, information technology, and futurology, commented critically on the US President’s view.

Pekar stated that Trump seems to believe “Putin was always a good guy” who suddenly changed. He argued that this perception reflects a broader Western misconception that Russia deviated from democratic norms under Putin.

Pekar dismissed this idea, noting that Russia “never was a democracy,” citing a brief transitional period after the Soviet collapse lasting only until 1993. He described Russia’s political history as “predatory authoritarianism,” saying Putin fits into a historic pattern of rulers like Ivan the Terrible, Peter I, and Stalin. Pekar also challenged the belief that Russian culture anchors it to Western civilization, calling it “a thin layer of gilding over an ocean of barbarism.”

He concluded that seeing Putin’s regime as a temporary deviation risks major geopolitical miscalculations, as this framing suggests it can simply be waited out, rather than confronted.