Russo-Ukrainian war, day 1189: Russia occupies four border villages in Sumy Oblast

Exclusives

Russians bullied and threatened Ukraine in Istanbul — but Putin banned his men from one move. Russia came to Istanbul armed with a script of threats. But Ukrainian delegate Kyslytsya now reveals there was one thing they absolutely couldn't do.

Yes, Tucker, Christians are really killed in Ukraine — for refusing to spy for Putin. While Russian propaganda claims Ukraine persecutes Christians, evidence from occupied territories tells a different story: pastors are tortured with electrodes and needles for refusing to transform their confession booths into FSB listening posts.

Russia's asbestos tank armor didn't work. Ukraine's drones did.. Death by poison, death by fire—Russia chooses both.

Military

Frontline report: Germany sends secret Gepard convoy as Ukraine prepares for a summer of fire. As ceasefire hopes fade, Germany sends air defenses and allies deliver firepower to help fortify Ukraine. Russian motorcycle units storm Ukrainian border villages seeking Sumy buffer zone in new offensive. Russian assault teams abandon traditional heavy equipment for speed-based infiltration. Drone attack triggers airport closures across Russia, claims of 99 drones intercepted. Several airports temporary suspended flights following reported drone strikes in Tula, Voronezh, and Kaluga. Following a record 355-drone attack, Russia launches 60 drones—Ukraine intercepts most. Dnipropetrovsk and Sumy oblasts face damage, with two civilians injured. Russia occupies four empty border villages in Sumy Oblast. Evacuated zones now under Russian control, but defenses hold elsewhere, local authorities say. Russian missile with 400 kg explosive mass was flying 1,000 km to kill — but met Ukrainian kindergarten teacher. Nataliia Hrabarchuk once soothed children to sleep. Now she stalks the skies with a Soviet Igla launcher.

Intelligence and technology

UK intel: Wagner-linked Russian general Surovikin resurfaces in first public role since 2023. His first known public role since 2023 is now tied to the Russian Embassy in Algeria. ISW: Russia committed to war goals through rising missile and drone buildup. Russia's evolving tactics point to a plan for grinding Ukraine down over time. Zelenskyy orders to accelarate ballistic missile production in Ukraine after Russia's record strike. While Moscow pretends to talk peace, Ukraine arms up for the long war ahead.

International

Russia raises stakes in Ukraine while West issues empty ultimatums, expert says. The Ukrainian security expert argues Putin escalates missile terror due to Western hesitation while autocratic allies provide decisive military support. UK uses Russian frozen profits to back Ukraine with $ 3 bn defense deal. The ERA initiative aims to bolster arms production and repairs through 2026. EU's return to quotas on Ukraine food exports undermine path to single market, Ukrainian agriculture minister says. Vitalii Koval urged EU partners to finalize a long-term trade framework by July. Ukraine weapon range limits still in place, says German vice chancellor, contradicting Merz. Lars Klingbeil refuted Chancellor Merz's remarks, saying Germany has not changed its policy. Sweden allocates half a billion dollars for Ukraine defense and security. The funding will be distributed across multiple international procurement initiatives rather than direct weapons transfers.

Humanitarian and social impact

Russian-speaking Ukrainians overwhelmingly oppose Moscow despite Kremlin protection claims, poll shows. Moscow's primary justification for invading Ukraine collapses under scrutiny as the very population Putin claims to protect demonstrates overwhelming negative stance toward Russia, with Russian-speakers choosing European integration over Moscow's influence by massive margins. AP: Ukrainian POW Serhii Hryhoriev died in Russian prison—he is one of over 200. The tragic toll highlights abuse and neglect in Russian detention facilities, according to Ukrainian and international reports.

Political and legal developments

Media: Leaked memo shows Trump-era US pulled out of EU sanctions plan. Top European envoys warn of major risks if unity continues to collapse. Read the daily review for Tue May 27 2025 here