Russia still mounting full assault on Ukraine

The Russian military has claimed even more territory in the past four days, particularly in the Sumy region in northeastern Ukraine, where several towns have fallen. Russia now controls 18.7% of Ukraine’s territory, according to DeepState OSINT, a nonprofit intelligence group.

Russia launched its largest attack since January this past weekend into this week with over 900 drones in three days, according to Zelenskyy. In recent weeks, Russia has used fiber optic drones that transmit video and control signals directly between the drone and the pilot, bypassing radio frequencies and making them immune to electronic jamming. Traditional electronic warfare systems that previously disabled drones are ineffective against this technology, according to the pro-Ukraine news site Euromaidan Press. The site reported that Russia is using the drones to destroy sophisticated weapons systems that other countries supplied to Ukraine.

How are other countries trying to help? Zelenskyy met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz this week. Germany will now provide long-range missiles to Ukraine without any range restrictions. It is unconfirmed whether Germany will supply its Taurus missile, which has a range of 310 miles. According to an X post from the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense, the military aid package is worth 5 billion euros and includes financing for long-range weapons, missiles, and medical equipment. Merz promised Ukraine continued support as long as needed.

Is there any talk of peace soon? Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has proposed the next round of peace talks with Ukraine for June 2 in Istanbul. Russia will submit a proposed peace memorandum then.