US President Donald Trump once again slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying that he is playing with fire as the war between Russia-Ukraine continues for more than three years now.Trump on Tuesday took to Truth Social, and stressed that Putin doesn't realised that if it weren't for him, "lots of bad things would have happened to Russia.""What Vladimir Putin doesn’t realize is that if it weren’t for me, lots of really bad things would have already happened to Russia, and I mean REALLY BAD. He’s playing with fire!," Trump said in his post.post

Earlier on Monday, Trump called Putin “absolutely CRAZY” for “needlessly killing a lot of people”.“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.”However, Kremlin spokesperson react to Trump's remarks, saying that it may be due to “emotional overload” at this “very important moment.”“We are really grateful to the Americans and to President Trump personally for their assistance in organising and launching this negotiation process,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov added when asked about Trump’s remarks, reported Reuters.Trump’s comments come following a Russian strike in 30 Ukrainian cities and villages over the weekend that killed at least 12 people, including three children.Notably, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had earlier said that Washington’s “silence” over recent Russian attacks was encouraging Putin. He also urged “strong pressure” on Moscow with tougher sanctions.Weeks ago, Trump also insisted that there would be no peace between Russia and Ukraine "until (Vladimir) Putin and I get together". Following news of the Russian President Putin skipping the vital talks, US President Trump said that it was "obvious" Putin was going to snub the Istanbul peace talks.&nbsp;

Trump on Tuesday took to Truth Social, and stressed that Putin doesn't realised that if it weren't for him, "lots of bad things would have happened to Russia."

US President Donald Trump once again slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying that he is playing with fire as the war between Russia-Ukraine continues for more than three years now. Trump on Tuesday took to Truth Social, and stressed that Putin doesn't realised that if it weren't for him, "lots of bad things would have happened to Russia." "What Vladimir Putin doesn’t realize is that if it weren’t for me, lots of really bad things would have already happened to Russia, and I mean REALLY BAD. He’s playing with fire!," Trump said in his post. post

Trump on Tuesday took to Truth Social, and stressed that Putin doesn't realised that if it weren't for him, "lots of bad things would have happened to Russia."

'Putin playing with fire': Trump slams Russian president, says REALLY BAD things would have happened if weren't for him

Russia is currently building power lines in occupied southeastern Ukraine to link to its own grid a major nuclear plant, Zaporizhzhia, it has captured, a Greenpeace report stated, pointing that it is a clear proof of Kremlin's intent to restart and exploit the offline facility.This comes despite the risks and calls to address the Zaporizhzhia plant's status in peace talks.Russia seized the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant early during the war with Ukraine, which was further condemned by the international community.Moscow's proximity to frontline fighting has raised fears of a potential nuclear disaster as experts have warned against any attempt to restart the plant under current conditions, The New York Times reported.<h2>What do the satellite images show? &nbsp;</h2>The Greenpeace report was shared with The New York Times, which includes satellite images showing that, since early February, Russia has been building more than 50 miles of electricity lines and pylons between the occupied Ukrainian cities of Mariupol and Berdyansk, along the coast of the Azov Sea.Notably, the satellite images provided by the Greenpeace report were verified by The Times.Greenpeace stated that the project aimed to link the new power lines to a large substation near Mariupol that was connected to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, about 140 miles farther west.Shaun Burnie, a nuclear specialist at Greenpeace Ukraine, said, "Putin’s plan for restarting the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant depends on securing new electricity transmission lines — this is the first physical evidence of those plans."However, according to experts, Russia would need to build several more lines to connect the plant to its own grid, which would take more time.Moreover, it would mark the first time a warring country seized another country's nuclear facility and then used it for its own energy needs.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-zaporizhzhia-bear-the-brunt-of-russian-assault-8880896">WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv, Zaporizhzhia bear the brunt of Russian assault</a>

Russia seized the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant early during the war with Ukraine, which was further condemned by the international community.

Russia is currently building power lines in occupied southeastern Ukraine to link to its own grid a major nuclear plant, Zaporizhzhia, it has captured, a Greenpeace report stated, pointing that it is a clear proof of Kremlin's intent to restart and exploit the offline facility. This comes despite the risks and calls to address the Zaporizhzhia plant's status in peace talks. Russia seized the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant early during the war with Ukraine, which was further condemned by the international community. Moscow's proximity to frontline fighting has raised fears of a potential nuclear disaster as experts have warned against any attempt to restart the plant under current conditions, The New York Times reported. What do the satellite images show? The Greenpeace report was shared with The New York Times, which includes satellite images showing that, since early February, Russia has been building more than 50 miles of electricity lines and pylons between the occupied Ukrainian cities of Mariupol and Berdyansk, along the coast of the Azov Sea. Notably, the satellite images provided by the Greenpeace report were verified by The Times. Greenpeace stated that the project aimed to link the new power lines to a large substation near Mariupol that was connected to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, about 140 miles farther west. Shaun Burnie, a nuclear specialist at Greenpeace Ukraine, said, "Putin’s plan for restarting the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant depends on securing new electricity transmission lines — this is the first physical evidence of those plans." However, according to experts, Russia would need to build several more lines to connect the plant to its own grid, which would take more time. Moreover, it would mark the first time a warring country seized another country's nuclear facility and then used it for its own energy needs. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv, Zaporizhzhia bear the brunt of Russian assault

Russia seized the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant early during the war with Ukraine, which was further condemned by the international community.

'First physical evidence': Satellite images reveal Russia's plan to restart seized Zaporizhzhia nuclear  plant

President Donald Trump on Monday called a reporter fake news when he asked him what he was going to do about the increased incursion and aerial assault from Russia. He replied, “We will see what we can do about it.” He then responded agitatedly, “I’m going to tell you? You're the fake news, aren't you?”Trump has been involved in ceasefire negotiations, yet Putin's actions, such as the large-scale drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, complicate these efforts.During his Presidential campaign, Trump repeatedly said he would end the Russia-Ukraine war within 24 hours. During his presidential debate, Trump said twice that it was in the best interest of the US to end the war when asked if he wanted Ukraine to win the war. He then blamed Biden for starting the war. &nbsp;Earlier in March, he suspended all military aid to Ukraine. Then, in May, he said that nothing would happen until Putin and he get together and talk.&nbsp;But now it seems like a daunting task. So his frustration is palpable. Even after a two-hour-long phone call with Putin, he does not seem to conjure up a concrete plan of action to restrict hostilities from both sides.In a truth social post, Trump said, “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. 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!”&nbsp;Kremlin replied to Trump's remark by saying he is suffering from “emotional overload” and claimed Russia is still committed to peace. Amidst this, Russia continues its aerial onslaught on Ukraine. However, Russia's response shows they don't want to antagonise the US president.On May 25, a Russian news agency claimed that there was an attempt to shoot down Putin's helicopter, which has complicated the situation even more and led to a serious escalation.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump is visibly frustrated at his inability to stop the hostility between Russia and Ukraine and lashes out at a reporter when asked about Washington's plan of action.

President Donald Trump on Monday called a reporter fake news when he asked him what he was going to do about the increased incursion and aerial assault from Russia. He replied, “We will see what we can do about it.” He then responded agitatedly, “I’m going to tell you? You're the fake news, aren't you?” Trump has been involved in ceasefire negotiations, yet Putin's actions, such as the large-scale drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, complicate these efforts. During his Presidential campaign, Trump repeatedly said he would end the Russia-Ukraine war within 24 hours. During his presidential debate, Trump said twice that it was in the best interest of the US to end the war when asked if he wanted Ukraine to win the war. He then blamed Biden for starting the war. Earlier in March, he suspended all military aid to Ukraine. Then, in May, he said that nothing would happen until Putin and he get together and talk. But now it seems like a daunting task. So his frustration is palpable. Even after a two-hour-long phone call with Putin, he does not seem to conjure up a concrete plan of action to restrict hostilities from both sides. In a truth social post, Trump said, “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. 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!” Kremlin replied to Trump's remark by saying he is suffering from “emotional overload” and claimed Russia is still committed to peace. Amidst this, Russia continues its aerial onslaught on Ukraine. However, Russia's response shows they don't want to antagonise the US president. On May 25, a Russian news agency claimed that there was an attempt to shoot down Putin's helicopter, which has complicated the situation even more and led to a serious escalation.

Trump is visibly frustrated at his inability to stop the hostility between Russia and Ukraine and lashes out at a reporter when asked about Washington's plan of action.

Frustrated Trump calls a reporter "you're fake news" when asked what he was going to do about Vladimir Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday threatened to "throttle" Western firms remaining in Russia and acting against its interests, as part of Moscow's effort to beef up domestic software development.&nbsp;"We need to throttle them. I completely agree, and I say this without hesitation," he said in response to a businessman's call to curb the activities of US tech companies Zoom and Microsoft, which currently provide only limited services in Russia.Many Western firms left Russia or significantly wound down their activities in the country after Moscow launched its military offensive on Ukraine, prompting a barrage of economic sanctions from Ukraine's allies.&nbsp;"We haven't kicked anyone out...we have provided the most favourable conditions for them to work in our market, and they are trying to throttle us," the Russian president said at a meeting with entrepreneurs, without providing details on how the Western companies were damaging Russia.&nbsp;"We must respond in kind, mirror their actions," added the Russian president, who has significantly tightened exit conditions for companies seeking to leave Russia, forcing many to sell their assets at steep discounts.There has been growing media speculation that some companies might consider a comeback amid US President Donald Trump's efforts to reset relations with Russia and achieve a fast peace in Ukraine.&nbsp;Kirill Dmitriev, head of Russia's sovereign wealth fund and Putin's special envoy on economic cooperation, said in April that his fund received a lot of requests from US firms wishing to come back. So far, no major Western company has publicly announced plans to return to Russia.&nbsp;Some businesses secured buyback options after selling their assets to the local management, leaving the door open for a potential return to the country.&nbsp;The companies that have left Russia completely, like US fast food chain McDonald's, won't receive a warm welcome if they decide to come back, Putin said.&nbsp;"They (McDonald's) have put everyone in a difficult position, left, and now, if they want to come back, are we supposed to roll out the red carpet for them? No, of course not," he said.&nbsp;Russia's President Vladimir Putin meets with representatives of the Russian business circles in Moscow&nbsp;

On May 26, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared that foreign tech companies like Microsoft and Zoom should be "throttled" or "strangled" in Russia if they act against the country's interests

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday threatened to "throttle" Western firms remaining in Russia and acting against its interests, as part of Moscow's effort to beef up domestic software development. "We need to throttle them. I completely agree, and I say this without hesitation," he said in response to a businessman's call to curb the activities of US tech companies Zoom and Microsoft, which currently provide only limited services in Russia. Many Western firms left Russia or significantly wound down their activities in the country after Moscow launched its military offensive on Ukraine, prompting a barrage of economic sanctions from Ukraine's allies. "We haven't kicked anyone out...we have provided the most favourable conditions for them to work in our market, and they are trying to throttle us," the Russian president said at a meeting with entrepreneurs, without providing details on how the Western companies were damaging Russia. "We must respond in kind, mirror their actions," added the Russian president, who has significantly tightened exit conditions for companies seeking to leave Russia, forcing many to sell their assets at steep discounts. There has been growing media speculation that some companies might consider a comeback amid US President Donald Trump's efforts to reset relations with Russia and achieve a fast peace in Ukraine. Kirill Dmitriev, head of Russia's sovereign wealth fund and Putin's special envoy on economic cooperation, said in April that his fund received a lot of requests from US firms wishing to come back. So far, no major Western company has publicly announced plans to return to Russia. Some businesses secured buyback options after selling their assets to the local management, leaving the door open for a potential return to the country. The companies that have left Russia completely, like US fast food chain McDonald's, won't receive a warm welcome if they decide to come back, Putin said. "They (McDonald's) have put everyone in a difficult position, left, and now, if they want to come back, are we supposed to roll out the red carpet for them? No, of course not," he said. Russia's President Vladimir Putin meets with representatives of the Russian business circles in Moscow

On May 26, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared that foreign tech companies like Microsoft and Zoom should be "throttled" or "strangled" in Russia if they act against the country's interests.

Putin wants to choke silicon valley tech giants in Russia

Russia occupied four villages in the northeastern border of Ukraine in Sumy Oblast, according to regional Governor Oleh Hryhorov. The border villages of Novenke, Zhuravka, Veselivka, Basivka, and Hryhorov were under Russian control as of May 26. It had been a repeated target of Russian incursions. These areas were previously considered gray zone with neither Russia nor Ukraine having complete control over those regions."Residents of these villages were evacuated long ago, and there is no threat to civilians," said Governor Oleh Hryhorov. Around 56,000 civilians were evacuated from the region about a week ago.&nbsp;"The Ukrainian Defence Forces and all components of the defence forces are keeping the situation under control, inflicting precision fire on the enemy," &nbsp;said Hryhorov"There is no evidence that (the Russians) are seriously considering peace...On the contrary, there is a lot of evidence that they are preparing new offensive operations," said President Volodymyr Zelensky, citing an intelligence report.&nbsp;According to Zelensky, there has been various intelligence from Ukraine and its allies about massive operations in the next few days.&nbsp;“They talk a lot about diplomacy. But when in the midst of this, there are constant Russian strikes, constant killings, constant assaults, and preparations for new offensives, this is definitely a diagnosis. Russia deserves full-scale pressure, everything that can be done to limit their military capabilities,” said Zelensky.According to reports from the news outlet Kyiv Independent, Russia is planning to create a buffer zone utilising its advances in Sumy Oblast. While it launched an air assault on Ukraine, it has steadily advanced near the northeastern border. On the other hand, Russia is involved in ‘peace talks’. There has been a continuous fight near the communities of Vodolahy, Yunakivka, and Khotin.Russia have intensified its aerial attacks in the last three consecutive nights with a rampage over the cities of Ukraine. It has launched almost 900 attack drones in the last three days, including cruise and ballistic missiles.&nbsp;

On one hand, Russia launched an air assault; on the other hand, it is steadily making advances on the north eastern border while providing lip service to peace talks. It had successfully captured four villages in Sumy Oblast.

Russia occupied four villages in the northeastern border of Ukraine in Sumy Oblast, according to regional Governor Oleh Hryhorov. The border villages of Novenke, Zhuravka, Veselivka, Basivka, and Hryhorov were under Russian control as of May 26. It had been a repeated target of Russian incursions. These areas were previously considered gray zone with neither Russia nor Ukraine having complete control over those regions. "Residents of these villages were evacuated long ago, and there is no threat to civilians," said Governor Oleh Hryhorov. Around 56,000 civilians were evacuated from the region about a week ago. "The Ukrainian Defence Forces and all components of the defence forces are keeping the situation under control, inflicting precision fire on the enemy," said Hryhorov "There is no evidence that (the Russians) are seriously considering peace...On the contrary, there is a lot of evidence that they are preparing new offensive operations," said President Volodymyr Zelensky, citing an intelligence report. According to Zelensky, there has been various intelligence from Ukraine and its allies about massive operations in the next few days. “They talk a lot about diplomacy. But when in the midst of this, there are constant Russian strikes, constant killings, constant assaults, and preparations for new offensives, this is definitely a diagnosis. Russia deserves full-scale pressure, everything that can be done to limit their military capabilities,” said Zelensky. According to reports from the news outlet Kyiv Independent, Russia is planning to create a buffer zone utilising its advances in Sumy Oblast. While it launched an air assault on Ukraine, it has steadily advanced near the northeastern border. On the other hand, Russia is involved in ‘peace talks’. There has been a continuous fight near the communities of Vodolahy, Yunakivka, and Khotin. Russia have intensified its aerial attacks in the last three consecutive nights with a rampage over the cities of Ukraine. It has launched almost 900 attack drones in the last three days, including cruise and ballistic missiles.

On one hand, Russia launched an air assault; on the other hand, it is steadily making advances on the north eastern border while providing lip service to peace talks. It had successfully captured four villages in Sumy Oblast.

Russia occupies four border villages in Ukraine previously considered gray zone

The Palestinian militant group Hamas has agreed to a Gaza ceasefire proposal by the US special envoy, Steve Witkoff, on Monday (May 26), news agency Reuters reported citing a Palestinian official.US President Donald Trump on Monday (May 26) again slammed Harvard University, calling it "very antisemitic", saying that he is considering taking three billion dollars of grant money away from the Ivy League.German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Monday (May 26) that Western allies of Ukraine are no longer imposing any restrictions on using long-range weapons in Kyiv against Russia.&nbsp;Click on the headlines to read more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-nods-gaza-ceasefire-proposal-by-us-envoy-israel-hamas-war-1748268291513">Hamas agrees to Gaza ceasefire proposal by US envoy</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250526/image-1748268613493.png?rect=(0,0,1280,720)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Hamas agrees to Gaza ceasefire proposal by US envoy"></figure>The Palestinian militant group Hamas has agreed to a Gaza ceasefire proposal by the US special envoy, Steve Witkoff, on Monday (May 26), news agency Reuters reported citing a Palestinian official.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-so-badly-needed-trump-considering-taking-three-billion-dollars-away-from-harvard-says-will-give-it-to-trade-schools-1748271017679">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-so-badly-needed-trump-considering-taking-three-billion-dollars-away-from-harvard-says-will-give-it-to-trade-schools-1748271017679">'So badly needed': Trump considering taking THREE BILLION DOLLARS away from Harvard, says will give it to trade schools</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250526/image-1748271578275.jpeg?rect=(0,0,549,309)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'So badly needed': Trump considering taking THREE BILLION DOLLARS away from Harvard, says will give it to trade schools"></figure>US President Donald Trump on Monday (May 26) again slammed Harvard University, calling it "very antisemitic", saying that he is considering taking three billion dollars of grant money away from the Ivy League. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/western-allies-no-longer-restrict-kyiv-from-using-long-range-weapons-against-russia-german-chancellor-1748271750377">Western allies no longer restrict Kyiv from using long-range weapons against Russia: German Chancellor</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250526/image-1748272201371.png?rect=(0,0,1280,720)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Western allies no longer restrict Kyiv from using long-range weapons against Russia: German Chancellor"></figure>German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Monday (May 26) that Western allies of Ukraine are no longer imposing any restrictions on using long-range weapons in Kyiv against Russia.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-french-president-macron-s-wife-playfully-smack-his-face-on-plane-watch-video-to-know-1748262938939">Did French President Macron's wife 'playfully smack' his face on plane? Watch video to know</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250526/image-1748264130461.png?rect=(113,0,1200,675)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Did French President Macron's wife 'playfully smack' his face on plane? Watch video to know"></figure>In a video making rounds on internet, French President Emmanuel Macron's wife Brigitte Macron has been seen, playfully smacking her husband as he stepped off the plane in Vietnam. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-canada-take-steps-to-mend-ties-strained-during-trudeau-s-term-foreign-ministers-talk-1748264068361">India, Canada take steps to mend ties strained during Trudeau’s term; foreign ministers talk</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250526/image-1748264120074.jpg?rect=(0,70,1060,596)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="India, Canada take steps to mend ties strained during Trudeau’s term; foreign ministers talk"></figure>India’s foreign minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, spoke to his Canadian counterpart, Anita Anand, in a call on Sunday, taking the first step to mend the strained bilateral relations between the two countries. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/operation-sindoor-indian-army-shares-how-air-defence-tracked-and-downed-pak-drones-and-missiles-1748271961366">Operation Sindoor: Indian Army shares how air defence tracked and downed Pak drones and missiles</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250526/image-1748272324275.jpg?rect=(0,17,1201,675)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Operation Sindoor: Indian Army shares how air defence tracked and downed Pak drones and missiles"></figure>The Indian Army has released a booklet for its personnel on Operation Sindoor, with new details of the action by the Army, Navy and Air Force on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, followed by tackling the swarm drones and missiles launched by the enemy and hitting airbases deep inside Pakistani territory.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-1-000-cases-of-covid-19-832-are-active-check-state-wise-details-here-1748267082431">India reports 1,000 cases of COVID-19, 832 are active | Check state-wise details here</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250526/image-1748267463167.png?rect=(0,0,1280,720)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="India reports 1,000 cases of COVID-19, 832 are active | Check state-wise details here"></figure>India has witnessed a drastic rise in the number of COVID-19 cases with the total number of reported cases being over 1,000. The data was released by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Monday (May 26). As of May 26, India has 1,009 active cases of coronavirus. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-coast-guard-tackles-oil-slick-after-liberian-vessel-sinks-off-kerala-coast-1748268235484">Indian Coast Guard tackles oil slick after Liberian vessel sinks off Kerala coast</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250526/image-1748269349861.jpg?rect=(0,0,1260,709)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Indian Coast Guard tackles oil slick after Liberian vessel sinks off Kerala coast"></figure>The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) launched an extensive pollution response operation to tackle the oil spill generated by the sinking of the Liberian container vessel MV MSC ELSA 3 on May 25, 2025, about 15 nautical miles southwest of Alappuzha, Kerala.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/mukul-dev-s-final-video-filmed-few-days-before-his-death-goes-viral-watch-1748266131251">Mukul Dev's final video filmed few days before his death goes viral | Watch</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250526/image-1748266557735.jpg?rect=(0,0,1280,720)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Mukul Dev's final video filmed few days before his death goes viral | Watch"></figure>The Indian film industry and fans are still mourning the death of actor Mukul Dev, who passed away at 54 in New Delhi. Amid this, a video of him has gone viral on social media and many are unable to believe the drastic change in his look. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-eng-vs-ind-2025-warning-bells-ring-for-team-india-ahead-of-the-eng-tests-as-sai-sudharsan-ex-coach-drops-worrying-concerns-1748272372838">Warning bells ring for Team India ahead of the ENG Tests as Sai Sudharsan’s ex-coach drops worrying concerns</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250526/image-1748272748521.jpg?rect=(23,0,1200,675)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Warning bells ring for Team India ahead of the ENG Tests as Sai Sudharsan’s ex-coach drops worrying concerns"></figure>Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee picked two uncapped players for the forthcoming England tour, including batter Sai Sudharsan and seamer Arshdeep Singh.&nbsp;

Top 10 world news: Hamas agrees to Gaza ceasefire proposal; Trump considering taking $3 billion away from Harvard, and more



The Palestinian militant group Hamas has agreed to a Gaza ceasefire proposal by the US special envoy, Steve Witkoff, on Monday (May 26), news agency Reuters reported citing a Palestinian official. US President Donald Trump on Monday (May 26) again slammed Harvard University, calling it "very antisemitic", saying that he is considering taking three billion dollars of grant money away from the Ivy League. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Monday (May 26) that Western allies of Ukraine are no longer imposing any restrictions on using long-range weapons in Kyiv against Russia. Click on the headlines to read more Hamas agrees to Gaza ceasefire proposal by US envoy The Palestinian militant group Hamas has agreed to a Gaza ceasefire proposal by the US special envoy, Steve Witkoff, on Monday (May 26), news agency Reuters reported citing a Palestinian official. 'So badly needed': Trump considering taking THREE BILLION DOLLARS away from Harvard, says will give it to trade schools US President Donald Trump on Monday (May 26) again slammed Harvard University, calling it "very antisemitic", saying that he is considering taking three billion dollars of grant money away from the Ivy League. Western allies no longer restrict Kyiv from using long-range weapons against Russia: German Chancellor German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Monday (May 26) that Western allies of Ukraine are no longer imposing any restrictions on using long-range weapons in Kyiv against Russia. Did French President Macron's wife 'playfully smack' his face on plane? Watch video to know In a video making rounds on internet, French President Emmanuel Macron's wife Brigitte Macron has been seen, playfully smacking her husband as he stepped off the plane in Vietnam. India, Canada take steps to mend ties strained during Trudeau’s term; foreign ministers talk India’s foreign minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, spoke to his Canadian counterpart, Anita Anand, in a call on Sunday, taking the first step to mend the strained bilateral relations between the two countries. Operation Sindoor: Indian Army shares how air defence tracked and downed Pak drones and missiles The Indian Army has released a booklet for its personnel on Operation Sindoor, with new details of the action by the Army, Navy and Air Force on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, followed by tackling the swarm drones and missiles launched by the enemy and hitting airbases deep inside Pakistani territory. India reports 1,000 cases of COVID-19, 832 are active | Check state-wise details here India has witnessed a drastic rise in the number of COVID-19 cases with the total number of reported cases being over 1,000. The data was released by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Monday (May 26). As of May 26, India has 1,009 active cases of coronavirus. Indian Coast Guard tackles oil slick after Liberian vessel sinks off Kerala coast The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) launched an extensive pollution response operation to tackle the oil spill generated by the sinking of the Liberian container vessel MV MSC ELSA 3 on May 25, 2025, about 15 nautical miles southwest of Alappuzha, Kerala. Mukul Dev's final video filmed few days before his death goes viral | Watch The Indian film industry and fans are still mourning the death of actor Mukul Dev, who passed away at 54 in New Delhi. Amid this, a video of him has gone viral on social media and many are unable to believe the drastic change in his look. Warning bells ring for Team India ahead of the ENG Tests as Sai Sudharsan’s ex-coach drops worrying concerns Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee picked two uncapped players for the forthcoming England tour, including batter Sai Sudharsan and seamer Arshdeep Singh.

Here are top 10 new from across the world.&nbsp;

Top 10 world news: Hamas agrees to Gaza ceasefire proposal; Trump considering taking $3 billion away from Harvard, and more

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Monday (May 26) that Western allies of Ukraine are no longer imposing any restrictions on using long-range weapons in Kyiv against Russia."There are no longer any range restrictions on weapons supplied to Ukraine, not from the British, not from the French, not from us, not from the Americans either. This means that Ukraine can now also defend itself by attacking military positions in Russia, for example," Merz said."It couldn't do that until some time ago, and with very few exceptions, it didn't do that until some time ago. Now it can. In jargon, we call this long-range fire, i.e., equipping Ukraine with weapons that attack military targets in the rear," the German Chancellor added.He also said that "that is the decisive qualitative difference in Ukraine's warfare." He alleged that Russia attacks civilians in Ukraine "absolutely ruthlessly" by bombing cities, hospitals and schools."Ukraine does not do that," he said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">German Chancellor Friedrich Merz: &quot;There are no longer any range restrictions on weapons supplied to Ukraine, not from the British, not from the French, not from us, not from the Americans either. This means that Ukraine can now also defend itself by attacking military positions… <a href="https://t.co/gMMzV2wxer">pic.twitter.com/gMMzV2wxer</a>&mdash; Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gerashchenko_en/status/1926987470236712970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"And we attach great importance to keeping it that way. But, a country that can only defend itself against an attacker on its territory is not defending itself adequately. And this defence of Ukraine is now also taking place against military infrastructure on Russian territory," Merz quipped further.The German Chancellor further revealed that this was one of the reasons he travlled yo Kyiv with the leaders of France, the UK and Poland on 10 May. During that visit, he had said that all future arms supply talks with Ukraine would be kept confidential."Nobody can now reproach us for not having exhausted all the diplomatic means available to us," Merz said."Lifting the restrictions on the use of long-range weapons will make "the decisive difference in Ukraine's warfare," Merz explained. He added that "a country that can only oppose an attacker on its territory is not defending itself adequately."

Western allies no longer restrict Kyiv from using long-range weapons against Russia, says German Chancellor

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Monday (May 26) that Western allies of Ukraine are no longer imposing any restrictions on using long-range weapons in Kyiv against Russia. "There are no longer any range restrictions on weapons supplied to Ukraine, not from the British, not from the French, not from us, not from the Americans either. This means that Ukraine can now also defend itself by attacking military positions in Russia, for example," Merz said. "It couldn't do that until some time ago, and with very few exceptions, it didn't do that until some time ago. Now it can. In jargon, we call this long-range fire, i.e., equipping Ukraine with weapons that attack military targets in the rear," the German Chancellor added. He also said that "that is the decisive qualitative difference in Ukraine's warfare." He alleged that Russia attacks civilians in Ukraine "absolutely ruthlessly" by bombing cities, hospitals and schools. "Ukraine does not do that," he said.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Monday (May 26) that Western allies of Ukraine are no longer imposing any restrictions on using long-range weapons in Kyiv against Russia.

Western allies no longer restrict Kyiv from using long-range weapons against Russia: German Chancellor

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (May 25) took to his Truth Social to call his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, “absolutely CRAZY” for “needlessly killing a lot of people”.&nbsp;Slamming Putin, Trump wrote, “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.”&nbsp;He further added, “Missiles and drones are being shot into Cities in Ukraine, for no reason whatsoever. 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!”&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-delays-50-eu-tariffs-until-july-9-after-talks-with-european-commission-president-1748231775888">Trump delays 50% EU tariffs until July 9 after talks with European Commission President</a>&nbsp;Trump’s comments come following a Russian strike in 30 Ukrainian cities and villages over the weekend that killed at least 12 people, including three children.&nbsp;Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had said that Washington’s “silence” over recent Russian attacks was encouraging Putin. He also urged “strong pressure” on Moscow with tougher sanctions.&nbsp;<h2>Trump blames Zelensky again</h2>&nbsp;In the post, Trump also blamed Zelensky for “causing problems”, saying that the Ukrainian leader is “doing his country no favours”.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-11-injured-in-south-carolina-beach-town-mass-shooting-1748229383570">At least 11 injured in South Carolina beach town mass shooting</a>&nbsp;“Likewise, President Zelenskyy is doing his Country no favours by talking the way he does. Everything out of his mouth causes problems, I don’t like it, and it better stop,” he said.&nbsp;Trump reiterated that the war is not his but Zelensky’s, Putin’s and former president Joe Biden’s.&nbsp;“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,” he said.

Trump’s comments come following a Russian strike in 30 Ukrainian cities and villages over the weekend that killed at least 12 people, including three children.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (May 25) took to his Truth Social to call his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, “absolutely CRAZY” for “needlessly killing a lot of people”. Slamming Putin, Trump wrote, “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.” He further added, “Missiles and drones are being shot into Cities in Ukraine, for no reason whatsoever. 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!” Also read | Trump delays 50% EU tariffs until July 9 after talks with European Commission President Trump’s comments come following a Russian strike in 30 Ukrainian cities and villages over the weekend that killed at least 12 people, including three children. Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had said that Washington’s “silence” over recent Russian attacks was encouraging Putin. He also urged “strong pressure” on Moscow with tougher sanctions. Trump blames Zelensky again In the post, Trump also blamed Zelensky for “causing problems”, saying that the Ukrainian leader is “doing his country no favours”. Also read | At least 11 injured in South Carolina beach town mass shooting “Likewise, President Zelenskyy is doing his Country no favours by talking the way he does. Everything out of his mouth causes problems, I don’t like it, and it better stop,” he said. Trump reiterated that the war is not his but Zelensky’s, Putin’s and former president Joe Biden’s. “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,” he said.

Trump’s comments come following a Russian strike in 30 Ukrainian cities and villages over the weekend that killed at least 12 people, including three children.

‘Not Trump’s war’: US President calls Putin ‘CRAZY’, blames Zelensky for ‘causing problems’

Ukraine and Russia completed a "1000 for 1000" prisoner swap on Sunday (May 25), after the two sides held talks in Turkey.&nbsp;While, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav announced on Sunday that he has expelled his eldest son, Tej Pratap Yadav, from the family and the party, citing his “irresponsible conduct and deviation from the family’s values and public decorum".&nbsp;Click on the headlines for more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-shaved-heads-wrapped-in-flags-russia-ukraine-complete-1000-for-1000-prisoner-swap-biggest-pow-exchange-in-3-years-1748187930660">'Shaved heads, wrapped in flags': Russia-Ukraine complete '1000 for 1000' prisoner swap, BIGGEST POW exchange in 3 years</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250525/image-1748188231414.png?w=1200&amp;h=675&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'Shaved heads, wrapped in flags': Russia-Ukraine complete '1000 for 1000' prisoner swap, BIGGEST POW exchange in 3 years"></figure>Ukraine and Russia completed a "1000 for 1000" prisoner swap on Sunday (May 25), after the two parties held talks in Istanbul, Turkey, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rjd-supremo-lalu-yadav-expels-elder-son-tej-pratap-from-party-for-6-years-1748167830682">RJD supremo Lalu Yadav expels elder son Tej Pratap from party for 6 years</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250525/image-1748168093374.jpg?w=1084&amp;h=610&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="RJD supremo Lalu Yadav expels elder son Tej Pratap from party for 6 years"></figure>Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav announced on Sunday that he has expelled his eldest son, Tej Pratap Yadav, from the family and the party, citing his “irresponsible conduct and deviation from the family’s values and public decorum,” after the latter said in a social media post on Saturday that he was “in a relationship" with a young woman.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-demands-list-of-foreign-harvard-students-claims-students-can-t-add-two-and-two-1748186311588">'We want those names and countries': Trump demands list of foreign Harvard students, claims 'they can’t add two and two'</a><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250525/image-1748187826557.jpeg?w=800&amp;h=450&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'We want those names and countries': Trump demands list of foreign Harvard students, claims 'they can’t add two and two'">US President Donald Trump has aimed at Harvard University, demanding to know more about its international student population and why the countries they come from are not contributing financially. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-pakistan-on-notice-will-destroy-terror-state-if-j-k-lg-manoj-sinha-warns-islamabad-of-similar-punishments-1748189838408">'Pakistan on notice, will destroy terror state if...': J&amp;K LG Manoj Sinha warns Islamabad of 'similar punishments'</a> &nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250525/image-1748190098234.png?w=1200&amp;h=675&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'Pakistan on notice, will destroy terror state if...': J&amp;K LG Manoj Sinha warns Islamabad of 'similar punishments'"></figure>Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday warned Pakistan, saying that they have been put "on notice", adding that if it resorts to any misadventure in the future, the Indian armed forces will make sure to destroy the "terrorist state". <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-airport-scare-portion-of-roof-collapses-at-terminal-1-amid-heavy-rains-and-thunderstorm-watch-1748184497816">Delhi Airport scare: Portion of roof collapses at Terminal 1 amid heavy rains and thunderstorm | WATCH</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250525/image-1748185288683.png?w=1200&amp;h=675&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Delhi Airport scare: Portion of roof collapses at Terminal 1 amid heavy rains and thunderstorm | WATCH"></figure>After heavy rains and winds hit parts of Delhi on Saturday night and Sunday, a portion of roof collapsed at Indira Gandhi International Airport's Terminal 1, as rainwater tore through a membrane shade.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-silence-encouraging-putin-says-zelensky-after-russia-s-largest-air-attack-in-war-yet-1748174564858">‘US silence encouraging Putin,’ says Zelensky after Russia’s largest air attack in war yet</a><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250525/image-1748179945315.webp?w=1216&amp;h=684&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="‘US silence encouraging Putin,’ says Zelensky after Russia’s largest air attack in war yet">After Russia launched the biggest air raid of the war against Ukraine, killing 12 people in overnight strikes by launching nearly 300 drones and 70 missiles, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged international leaders to increase their pressure on Russia and said the silence of America and others around the world only encourages Putin to drag the war and kill every day. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-knife-behind-the-back-of-pm-canada-s-liberals-want-power-to-remove-mark-carney-just-weeks-after-he-took-office-1748174150652">‘Knife behind the back of PM’: Canada’s Liberals want power to remove Mark Carney just weeks after he took office</a><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250525/image-1748174679484.png?w=1920&amp;h=1080&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="‘Knife behind the back of PM’: Canada’s Liberals want power to remove Mark Carney just weeks after he took office">Less than a month into Mark Carney’s term as Prime Minister of Canada, some Liberal MPs are already considering ways to ensure they can remove him if necessary. As the newly elected Parliament prepares to sit, the Liberal caucus is set to vote on whether to give itself the power to fire its leader under the provisions of the Reform Act. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-new-covid-variants-detected-in-india-how-threatening-could-they-be-as-cases-rise-1748167633789">Two new Covid variants detected in India. How threatening could they be as cases rise?</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250525/image-1748168056299.jpg?w=1280&amp;h=720&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Two new Covid variants detected in India. How threatening could they be as cases rise?"></figure>COVID-19 cases have been on the rise in India. Multiple states, including Karnataka, Delhi and Bengal have issued advisories but have urged people not to panic. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-gujarat-titans-suffer-its-biggest-defeat-by-runs-in-final-league-game-against-chennai-super-kings-1748182298829">Gujarat suffer its biggest IPL defeat by runs in final league game against Chennai</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250525/image-1748182511144.jpg?rect=(105,0,1200,675)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Gujarat suffer its biggest IPL defeat by runs in final league game against Chennai"></figure>Gujarat Titans (GT) suffered its biggest defeat by runs in IPL history, losing to Chennai Super Kings by 83 runs on Sunday (May 25) in Ahmedabad. This loss dents their chances of confirming a top-two finish, as Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) could finish above GT should they win their last league games, respectively. For CSK, they just won their fourth match this season, finishing tenth on the points table. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kuberaa-teaser-nagarjuna-and-dhanush-unleash-a-dark-saga-of-power-and-greed-1748183032280">Kuberaa teaser: Nagarjuna and Dhanush unleash a dark saga of power and greed</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250525/image-1748183816321.jpg?rect=(0,0,1280,720)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Kuberaa teaser: Nagarjuna and Dhanush unleash a dark saga of power and greed"></figure>The makers finally unveiled the teaser of the highly anticipated film Kuberaa featuring Dhanush, Rashmika Mandanna and Nagarjuna in key roles. The teaser promises intense scenes and a dark saga filled with power and greed. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Here are the top 10 stories from across the world. 

Ukraine and Russia completed a "1000 for 1000" prisoner swap on Sunday (May 25), after the two sides held talks in Turkey. While, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav announced on Sunday that he has expelled his eldest son, Tej Pratap Yadav, from the family and the party, citing his “irresponsible conduct and deviation from the family’s values and public decorum". Click on the headlines for more 'Shaved heads, wrapped in flags': Russia-Ukraine complete '1000 for 1000' prisoner swap, BIGGEST POW exchange in 3 years Ukraine and Russia completed a "1000 for 1000" prisoner swap on Sunday (May 25), after the two parties held talks in Istanbul, Turkey, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced. RJD supremo Lalu Yadav expels elder son Tej Pratap from party for 6 years Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav announced on Sunday that he has expelled his eldest son, Tej Pratap Yadav, from the family and the party, citing his “irresponsible conduct and deviation from the family’s values and public decorum,” after the latter said in a social media post on Saturday that he was “in a relationship" with a young woman. 'We want those names and countries': Trump demands list of foreign Harvard students, claims 'they can’t add two and two' US President Donald Trump has aimed at Harvard University, demanding to know more about its international student population and why the countries they come from are not contributing financially. 'Pakistan on notice, will destroy terror state if...': J&K LG Manoj Sinha warns Islamabad of 'similar punishments' Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday warned Pakistan, saying that they have been put "on notice", adding that if it resorts to any misadventure in the future, the Indian armed forces will make sure to destroy the "terrorist state". Delhi Airport scare: Portion of roof collapses at Terminal 1 amid heavy rains and thunderstorm | WATCH After heavy rains and winds hit parts of Delhi on Saturday night and Sunday, a portion of roof collapsed at Indira Gandhi International Airport's Terminal 1, as rainwater tore through a membrane shade. ‘US silence encouraging Putin,’ says Zelensky after Russia’s largest air attack in war yet After Russia launched the biggest air raid of the war against Ukraine, killing 12 people in overnight strikes by launching nearly 300 drones and 70 missiles, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged international leaders to increase their pressure on Russia and said the silence of America and others around the world only encourages Putin to drag the war and kill every day. ‘Knife behind the back of PM’: Canada’s Liberals want power to remove Mark Carney just weeks after he took office Less than a month into Mark Carney’s term as Prime Minister of Canada, some Liberal MPs are already considering ways to ensure they can remove him if necessary. As the newly elected Parliament prepares to sit, the Liberal caucus is set to vote on whether to give itself the power to fire its leader under the provisions of the Reform Act. Two new Covid variants detected in India. How threatening could they be as cases rise? COVID-19 cases have been on the rise in India. Multiple states, including Karnataka, Delhi and Bengal have issued advisories but have urged people not to panic. Gujarat suffer its biggest IPL defeat by runs in final league game against Chennai Gujarat Titans (GT) suffered its biggest defeat by runs in IPL history, losing to Chennai Super Kings by 83 runs on Sunday (May 25) in Ahmedabad. This loss dents their chances of confirming a top-two finish, as Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) could finish above GT should they win their last league games, respectively. For CSK, they just won their fourth match this season, finishing tenth on the points table. Kuberaa teaser: Nagarjuna and Dhanush unleash a dark saga of power and greed The makers finally unveiled the teaser of the highly anticipated film Kuberaa featuring Dhanush, Rashmika Mandanna and Nagarjuna in key roles. The teaser promises intense scenes and a dark saga filled with power and greed.

Here are the top 10 stories from across the world.&nbsp;

Top 10 world news: Russia-Ukraine complete biggest prisoners swap; Indian politician Lalu Yadav expels son from party, and more

Ukraine and Russia completed a "1000 for 1000" prisoner swap on Sunday (May 25), after the two parties held talks in Istanbul, Turkey, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced.Zelensky said that the 303 Ukrainian captives scheduled to be released had been returned from Russia."303 Ukrainian defenders are home. The third part of the 1000-for-1000 exchange deal, agreed upon in Türkiye, has been completed," he said in a post on X.Calling them the warriors of the Armed Forces, the Ukrainian president said that the National Guard, the State Border Guard Service, and the State Special Transport Service are returning home."I thank the team that worked around the clock to successfully carry out this exchange. We will definitely bring every single one of our people back from Russian captivity," he added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">303 Ukrainian defenders are home. The third part of the 1000-for-1000 exchange deal, agreed upon in Türkiye, has been completed. Today, warriors of our Armed Forces, the National Guard, the State Border Guard Service, and the State Special Transport Service are returning home.… <a href="https://t.co/RpixVvQYDJ">pic.twitter.com/RpixVvQYDJ</a>&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1926571460518187124?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

He also shared images of the prisoners who were released, as they were seen sharing emotional moments, hugging each other with big smiles on their face.The prisoners were seen with shaved heads, many wrapped in flags.Meanwhile, Russia also confirmed that the final exchange had been completed, saying on Sunday, it had exchanged 303 Ukrainian prisoners of war for 303 Russian prisoners.“In accordance with the Russian-Ukrainian agreements reached in Istanbul on May 16, the Russian and Ukrainian sides have (over the weekend) carried out the exchange of 1,000 people for 1,000 people,” Russia’s defence ministry said.Hours after the final exchange, Ukraine's capital and other regions came under a huge Russian drone and missile attack that killed at least 12 people, while injuring others.Russia hit Ukraine with 367 drones and missiles, making it the largest single aerial attack in a more than three-year-long war, Yuriy Ihnat, a spokesperson for Ukraine's Air Force said.Zelensky said that Russian missiles and drones hit 30 cities and villages while urging Western partners to hit Russia with sanctions.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-shoot-them-on-the-spot-ukraine-records-over-150-executions-of-soldiers-in-russian-captivity-got-direct-orders-to-kill-prisoners-1748169237726">Also read: 'Shoot them on the spot': Ukraine records over 150 executions of soldiers in Russian captivity, got direct orders to 'kill prisoners'</a>

Calling them the warriors of the Armed Forces, Zelensky said that the National Guard, the State Border Guard Service, and the State Special Transport Service are returning home.

Ukraine and Russia completed a "1000 for 1000" prisoner swap on Sunday (May 25), after the two parties held talks in Istanbul, Turkey, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced. Zelensky said that the 303 Ukrainian captives scheduled to be released had been returned from Russia. "303 Ukrainian defenders are home. The third part of the 1000-for-1000 exchange deal, agreed upon in Türkiye, has been completed," he said in a post on X. Calling them the warriors of the Armed Forces, the Ukrainian president said that the National Guard, the State Border Guard Service, and the State Special Transport Service are returning home. "I thank the team that worked around the clock to successfully carry out this exchange. We will definitely bring every single one of our people back from Russian captivity," he added.

Calling them the warriors of the Armed Forces, the Ukrainian president said that the National Guard, the State Border Guard Service, and the State Special Transport Service are returning home.

'Shaved heads, wrapped in flags': Russia-Ukraine complete '1000 for 1000' prisoner swap, BIGGEST POW exchange in 3 years

After Russia launched the biggest air raid of the war against Ukraine, killing 12 people in overnight strikes by launching nearly 300 drones and 70 missiles, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged international leaders to increase their pressure on Russia and said the silence of America and others around the world only encourages Putin to drag the war and kill every day.&nbsp;Referring to the deadly overnight airstrikes, Zelensky said that each such ‘terrorist’ Russian strike is a sufficient reason for new sanctions against Russia.&nbsp;&nbsp;He added that only strong pressure on the Russian leadership will stop this brutality.&nbsp;The Ukrainian leader said rescuers are working in over 30 Ukrainian cities and villages after nearly 300 attack drones and almost 70 missiles, including ballistic ones, were launched by Russia overnight.“The targets were Kyiv and the region, as well as Zhytomyr, Khmelnytskyi, Ternopil, Chernihiv, Sumy, Odesa, Poltava, Dnipro, Mykolaiv, Kharkiv and Cherkasy regions,” Zelensky wrote in a post on X, in which he said the strikes were deliberately targeting “ordinary cities”.<h2>‘Russia is dragging the war on, continues to kill every day’</h2> “Each such terrorist Russian strike is a sufficient reason for new sanctions against Russia. Russia is dragging out this war and continues to kill every day. The world may go on a weekend break, but the war continues, regardless of weekends and weekdays. This cannot be ignored. Silence of America, silence of others around the world only encourage Putin,” he further said in the post.“Without truly strong pressure on the Russian leadership, this brutality cannot be stopped. Sanctions will certainly help. Determination matters now – the determination of the United States, of European countries, and of all those around the world who seek peace,” Zelensky added.<h2>‘Russia bent on the annihilation of Ukraine,’ says EU’s Kaja Kallas</h2> The European Union foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, also called for “the strongest international pressure” on Russia after two days of heavy Russian air raids hit civilian buildings in Ukraine.&nbsp;“Last night’s attacks again show Russia is bent on more suffering and the annihilation of Ukraine. Devastating to see children among innocent victims harmed and killed. My thoughts are with the families today. We need the strongest international pressure on Russia to stop this war,” said Kallas, the former Estonian prime minister and a staunch ally of Ukraine, in a post.The EU on Tuesday agreed to impose fresh sanctions on Russia, notably targeting almost 200 ships from the shadow fleet illicitly transporting oil to skirt Western restrictions.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today, rescuers have been working in more than 30 Ukrainian cities and villages following Russia’s massive strike. Wherever necessary, work continues – our emergency services are on the ground, providing assistance and supporting people. Thank you. Nearly 300 attack drones were… <a href="https://t.co/Mxx1a34kS2">pic.twitter.com/Mxx1a34kS2</a>&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1926540328242229428?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Referring to the deadly overnight airstrikes, Zelensky said that each such ‘terrorist’ Russian strike is a sufficient reason for new sanctions against Russia. He added that only strong pressure on the Russian leadership will stop this brutality.

After Russia launched the biggest air raid of the war against Ukraine, killing 12 people in overnight strikes by launching nearly 300 drones and 70 missiles, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged international leaders to increase their pressure on Russia and said the silence of America and others around the world only encourages Putin to drag the war and kill every day. Referring to the deadly overnight airstrikes, Zelensky said that each such ‘terrorist’ Russian strike is a sufficient reason for new sanctions against Russia. He added that only strong pressure on the Russian leadership will stop this brutality. The Ukrainian leader said rescuers are working in over 30 Ukrainian cities and villages after nearly 300 attack drones and almost 70 missiles, including ballistic ones, were launched by Russia overnight. “The targets were Kyiv and the region, as well as Zhytomyr, Khmelnytskyi, Ternopil, Chernihiv, Sumy, Odesa, Poltava, Dnipro, Mykolaiv, Kharkiv and Cherkasy regions,” Zelensky wrote in a post on X, in which he said the strikes were deliberately targeting “ordinary cities”. ‘Russia is dragging the war on, continues to kill every day’ “Each such terrorist Russian strike is a sufficient reason for new sanctions against Russia. Russia is dragging out this war and continues to kill every day. The world may go on a weekend break, but the war continues, regardless of weekends and weekdays. This cannot be ignored. Silence of America, silence of others around the world only encourage Putin,” he further said in the post. “Without truly strong pressure on the Russian leadership, this brutality cannot be stopped. Sanctions will certainly help. Determination matters now – the determination of the United States, of European countries, and of all those around the world who seek peace,” Zelensky added. ‘Russia bent on the annihilation of Ukraine,’ says EU’s Kaja Kallas The European Union foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, also called for “the strongest international pressure” on Russia after two days of heavy Russian air raids hit civilian buildings in Ukraine. “Last night’s attacks again show Russia is bent on more suffering and the annihilation of Ukraine. Devastating to see children among innocent victims harmed and killed. My thoughts are with the families today. We need the strongest international pressure on Russia to stop this war,” said Kallas, the former Estonian prime minister and a staunch ally of Ukraine, in a post. The EU on Tuesday agreed to impose fresh sanctions on Russia, notably targeting almost 200 ships from the shadow fleet illicitly transporting oil to skirt Western restrictions.

Referring to the deadly overnight airstrikes, Zelensky said that each such ‘terrorist’ Russian strike is a sufficient reason for new sanctions against Russia. He added that only strong pressure on the Russian leadership will stop this brutality.

‘US silence encouraging Putin,’ says Zelensky after Russia’s largest air attack in war yet

Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR) has documented more than 150 cases of Ukrainian soldiers being summarily executed after surrendering to Russian forces.It further noted that the actual number might be higher, considering that this figure includes those cases recorded by HUR, Kyiv Independent reported.It comes after Russia and Ukraine began their largest prisoner swap in three years of war.Russian forces have been executing Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) and there has been a sharp spike in that since 2024.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-strikes-ukraine-with-missiles-and-drones-medvedev-warned-kyiv-has-to-accept-peace-terms-or-surrender-1748143007369">Also read: Russia strikes Ukraine with missiles and drones; Medvedev warned Kyiv has to accept peace terms or surrender</a>&nbsp;Russian troops received direct orders to kill prisoners of war, Ukrainian intelligence officials said. They added that these acts are not isolated incidents but part of a deliberate and systematic policy of the Russian leadership.The UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine also confirmed these incidents and the pattern of war crimes.Earlier on March 19, they released a report, stating that the commission found a growing number of cases in which Russian forces deliberately killed or maimed Ukrainian soldiers who had surrendered or attempted to surrender."Several (Russian deserters) told the commission that they had received orders not to take prisoners but kill them instead," the UN report read. One described a deputy brigade commander saying, "Prisoners are not needed, shoot them on the spot."Earlier on Saturday, Ukraine brought 307 Ukrainian soldiers home from Russian captivity in the second phase of its largest prisoner exchange.It happened as per the agreement of 1,000-for-1,000 prisoner exchange, which resulted from the Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul on May 16.Russia and Ukraine swapped 390 prisoners each in the initial phase on May 23, with the process set to continue until May 25. "In just these two days, 697 people have been brought home. We expect the process to continue tomorrow," Zelensky posted on X.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-three-killed-in-russian-drone-attack-in-kyiv-ukraine-1748143054880">Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Three killed in Russian drone attack in Kyiv: Ukraine</a>&nbsp;

It further noted that the actual number might be higher, considering that this figure includes those cases recorded by HUR. 

Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR) has documented more than 150 cases of Ukrainian soldiers being summarily executed after surrendering to Russian forces. It further noted that the actual number might be higher, considering that this figure includes those cases recorded by HUR, Kyiv Independent reported. It comes after Russia and Ukraine began their largest prisoner swap in three years of war. Russian forces have been executing Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) and there has been a sharp spike in that since 2024. Also read: Russia strikes Ukraine with missiles and drones; Medvedev warned Kyiv has to accept peace terms or surrender Russian troops received direct orders to kill prisoners of war, Ukrainian intelligence officials said. They added that these acts are not isolated incidents but part of a deliberate and systematic policy of the Russian leadership. The UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine also confirmed these incidents and the pattern of war crimes. Earlier on March 19, they released a report, stating that the commission found a growing number of cases in which Russian forces deliberately killed or maimed Ukrainian soldiers who had surrendered or attempted to surrender. "Several (Russian deserters) told the commission that they had received orders not to take prisoners but kill them instead," the UN report read. One described a deputy brigade commander saying, "Prisoners are not needed, shoot them on the spot." Earlier on Saturday, Ukraine brought 307 Ukrainian soldiers home from Russian captivity in the second phase of its largest prisoner exchange. It happened as per the agreement of 1,000-for-1,000 prisoner exchange, which resulted from the Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul on May 16. Russia and Ukraine swapped 390 prisoners each in the initial phase on May 23, with the process set to continue until May 25. "In just these two days, 697 people have been brought home. We expect the process to continue tomorrow," Zelensky posted on X. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Three killed in Russian drone attack in Kyiv: Ukraine

It further noted that the actual number might be higher, considering that this figure includes those cases recorded by HUR.&nbsp;

'Shoot them on the spot': Ukraine records over 150 executions of soldiers in Russian captivity, got direct orders to 'kill prisoners'

Russia launched a mass aerial assault with drones for the second consecutive night in Kyiv and killing at least seven people, said Kyiv city’s military administration, Tymur Tkachenko. Visuals of citizens taking shelter in subway stations were evident on social media.There were ballistic missiles and drones launched towards Ukraine, damaging civilian infrastructure and a dormitory.&nbsp;Explosions were also heard throughout the night in Kyiv, Odesa, Dnipro, Mykolaiv, Sumy, Konotop, Chernihiv, and Kharkiv, according to local officials and the news outlet Suspilne.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Kyiv. 2:37 a.m. The second night of terror. Russia’s Shaheds are flying just outside, so low you can hear the buzz, followed by machine gun fire. We’re back in shelters and corridors. No one is sleeping. At the same minutes cruise missiles are coming in. Emboldened, Russia… <a href="https://t.co/1dxRXIp45e">pic.twitter.com/1dxRXIp45e</a>&mdash; Maria Avdeeva (@maria_avdv) <a href="https://twitter.com/maria_avdv/status/1926424985112866985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Russian air defence unit also intercepted a dozen of Ukrainian drones that were flying towards Moscow at the early morning of May 25, according to Moscow mayor Sergey Sobyanin."Every night, our forces work to protect lives. Today, there was a large-scale and vile Russian attack. Ballistic missiles — some were successfully intercepted. There were also 250 drones, mostly Shaheds. I am grateful to everyone helping Ukraine with air defence. Delivering air defence systems to us means real protection for people — here and now," wrote Vlodomyr Zelensky in a post on X.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Every night, our forces work to protect lives. Today, there was a large-scale and vile Russian attack. Ballistic missiles — some were successfully intercepted. There were also 250 drones, mostly Shaheds. I am grateful to everyone helping Ukraine with air defence. Delivering air… <a href="https://t.co/x4c34pe7mO">pic.twitter.com/x4c34pe7mO</a>&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1926341208181256469?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Earlier on May 24, Ukraine reported a barrage of ballistic missiles and 250 drones inside Kyiv. This latest set of aggression happened after both sides agreed to exchange large-scale prisoners of war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russia's defence ministry said each side brought home 307 more soldiers, a day after each released a total of 390 combatants and civilians.&nbsp;Following the call with US President Donald Trump on May 19, Russian President Vladimir Putin said in a statement, “We agreed with the&nbsp;President of&nbsp;the&nbsp;United States that Russia would propose and&nbsp;is ready to&nbsp;engage with the&nbsp;Ukrainian side on&nbsp;drafting a&nbsp;memorandum regarding a&nbsp;potential future peace agreement. This would include outlining a&nbsp;range of&nbsp;provisions, such as&nbsp;the&nbsp;principles for&nbsp;settlement, the&nbsp;timeframe for&nbsp;a&nbsp;possible peace deal, and&nbsp;other matters, including a&nbsp;potential temporary ceasefire, should the&nbsp;necessary agreements be reached.”Dimitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of Russia, said that Ukraine has two options: "either accept the outlined peace terms or face unconditional surrender." Russia considers that the USSR was never completely dissolved, hence the Ukraine crisis is completely an internal matter.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Putin’s advisor Kobyakov: Legally speaking, the USSR was never properly dissolved, and the Ukraine crisis is therefore an internal Russian matter. <a href="https://t.co/6AHot9nCD4">pic.twitter.com/6AHot9nCD4</a>&mdash; Putin Direct (@PutinDirect) <a href="https://twitter.com/PutinDirect/status/1925380829347553366?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In June 2024, President Putin outlined Russia’s conditions for a ceasefire in Ukraine: Full withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from Donetsk, Lugansk, Kherson, and Zaporozhye regions. Formal renunciation of Ukraine’s NATO membership bid. On the other hand, Ukraine wants a full withdrawal of Russian security forces, territorial integrity, and financial reparation, as well as membership in NATO. Both parties have subsequently failed to agree on these terms despite third-party mediation by Turkey, China, the US and the Vatican.&nbsp;

Russia launched a massive overnight assault on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, killing 7 and injuring many. As Zelensky urges more air defence, Medvedev says Ukraine must accept Russia’s peace terms or face surrender. Meanwhile, both sides exchanged hundreds of prisoners amid stalled talks.

Russia launched a mass aerial assault with drones for the second consecutive night in Kyiv and killing at least seven people, said Kyiv city’s military administration, Tymur Tkachenko. Visuals of citizens taking shelter in subway stations were evident on social media. There were ballistic missiles and drones launched towards Ukraine, damaging civilian infrastructure and a dormitory. Explosions were also heard throughout the night in Kyiv, Odesa, Dnipro, Mykolaiv, Sumy, Konotop, Chernihiv, and Kharkiv, according to local officials and the news outlet Suspilne.

Russia launched a massive overnight assault on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, killing 7 and injuring many. As Zelensky urges more air defence, Medvedev says Ukraine must accept Russia’s peace terms or face surrender. Meanwhile, both sides exchanged hundreds of prisoners amid stalled talks.

Russia strikes Ukraine with missiles and drones; Medvedev warned Kyiv has to accept peace terms or surrender

US President Donald Trump on Friday (May 23) announced that a large prisoner swap between Russia and Ukraine had been finalised.“A major prisoners swap was just completed between Russia and Ukraine. It will go into effect shortly. Congratulations to both sides on this negotiation. This could lead to something big???” Trump posted on his platform, Truth Social.The development follows direct talks between Moscow and Kyiv held earlier this month in Istanbul, the first such discussions between the two countries in more than three years.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/russia-ukraine-war-trumps-ukraine-peace-plan-isnt-about-peace-its-a-pr-stunt-8862762">Trump’s Ukraine ‘peace’ plan isn’t about peace. It’s a PR stunt</a><h2>1,000 prisoners listed for exchange</h2>According to Ukrainian military intelligence officials, Kyiv had submitted a list of 1,000 prisoners of war to Russia as part of the agreement. The Russian side also confirmed receiving the list.So far this month, both sides have already exchanged 205 captured soldiers, reflecting continued efforts to maintain prisoner swaps despite the ongoing war.These negotiations are part of a series of exchanges that have taken place since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tried-to-use-zelensky-against-biden-but-it-backfired-what-fueled-his-anger-towards-terrible-ukraine-8769285">Trump tried to use Zelensky against Biden but&nbsp;it&nbsp;backfired&nbsp;-&nbsp;What fueled his anger towards 'terrible'&nbsp;Ukraine</a><h2>Ukraine’s call for ceasefire turned down</h2>During the Istanbul discussions, Ukraine had also requested a 30-day ceasefire. However, Moscow rejected the proposal.Ukrainian representatives stressed the importance of reaching an immediate ceasefire through diplomatic means, stating this was in line with suggestions made by the US, European partners, and other countries.Russia's lead negotiator, Vladimir Medinsky, said both parties had agreed to “present their vision of a possible future ceasefire”.<h2>Trump and Putin discussed separate swap with US</h2>In a separate development, the Kremlin confirmed this week that President Putin and Donald Trump had spoken about a potential prisoner exchange between Russia and the United States. Further details on that discussion remain limited.

“A major prisoners swap was just completed between Russia and Ukraine. It will go into effect shortly. Congratulations to both sides on this negotiation. This could lead to something big???” Trump posted on his platform, Truth Social.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (May 23) announced that a large prisoner swap between Russia and Ukraine had been finalised. “A major prisoners swap was just completed between Russia and Ukraine. It will go into effect shortly. Congratulations to both sides on this negotiation. This could lead to something big???” Trump posted on his platform, Truth Social. The development follows direct talks between Moscow and Kyiv held earlier this month in Istanbul, the first such discussions between the two countries in more than three years. Also read: Trump’s Ukraine ‘peace’ plan isn’t about peace. It’s a PR stunt 1,000 prisoners listed for exchange According to Ukrainian military intelligence officials, Kyiv had submitted a list of 1,000 prisoners of war to Russia as part of the agreement. The Russian side also confirmed receiving the list. So far this month, both sides have already exchanged 205 captured soldiers, reflecting continued efforts to maintain prisoner swaps despite the ongoing war. These negotiations are part of a series of exchanges that have taken place since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Also read: Trump tried to use Zelensky against Biden but it backfired - What fueled his anger towards 'terrible' Ukraine Ukraine’s call for ceasefire turned down During the Istanbul discussions, Ukraine had also requested a 30-day ceasefire. However, Moscow rejected the proposal. Ukrainian representatives stressed the importance of reaching an immediate ceasefire through diplomatic means, stating this was in line with suggestions made by the US, European partners, and other countries. Russia's lead negotiator, Vladimir Medinsky, said both parties had agreed to “present their vision of a possible future ceasefire”. Trump and Putin discussed separate swap with US In a separate development, the Kremlin confirmed this week that President Putin and Donald Trump had spoken about a potential prisoner exchange between Russia and the United States. Further details on that discussion remain limited.

“A major prisoners swap was just completed between Russia and Ukraine. It will go into effect shortly. Congratulations to both sides on this negotiation. This could lead to something big???” Trump posted on his platform, Truth Social.

Trump hints at 'something big' between Russia and Ukraine, hails major prisoner swap  - Does this mean ceasefire is close?

Russia has started to create a “security buffer zone” along the border with Ukraine as part of its efforts to strengthen defence, President Vladimir Putin announced during a meeting with government officials, reported TASS.&nbsp;“We have approved the creation of a necessary security buffer zone along our borders. Our armed forces are actively working to accomplish this task,” Putin said, without specifying where exactly the buffer zone will be created.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-didn-t-get-zelenskyed-south-africa-s-ramaphosa-praised-for-calmly-handling-trump-white-house-showdown-1747935746317">‘Didn’t get Zelenskyed’: South Africa’s Ramaphosa praised for calmly handling Trump White House showdown</a>&nbsp;This is not the first time that the Russian President has talked about the creation of a buffer zone. Last year, Putin expressed plans to establish a buffer zone along its border with Ukraine up to 150 kilometres wide, referring to it as a sanitary zone.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-confirms-us-president-donald-trump-will-visit-canada-for-g7-leaders-summit-1747934844813">What is G7 Summit? White House confirms US President Donald Trump will visit Canada next month</a>&nbsp;He stressed that given the ongoing developments in the Kursk, Belgorod, and Bryansk regions require immediate restoration and rebuilding of the areas. &nbsp;Moreover, rehabilitation of transport networks and other infrastructure is also essential to ensure the smooth operation of industrial and agricultural enterprises, and support entrepreneurs and their employees.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-minister-says-hamas-not-the-enemy-every-child-in-gaza-is-1747924780039">‘Hamas is not enemy, every child in Gaza is’: Israel minister's BOLD remarks stir controversy</a>&nbsp;<h2>Putin tells Trump Russia foiled terror attack</h2>&nbsp;In a telephonic conversation with US President Donald Trump on May 19, Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed that Russia foiled a terror attack that was scheduled just ahead of the Victory Day celebration on May 9 at the Red Square and the Kremlin area.&nbsp;Putin's aide Yurii Ushakov revealed the details of the aforementioned call to the reporters of the Russian news agency TASS.&nbsp;Russia had allowed three days of cease-fire with Ukraine for the occasion of Victory Day. This lasted from May 8 to May 11. &nbsp;On May 7, Russia allegedly struck down 524 drones and Storm Shadow missiles launched towards it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We have approved the creation of a necessary security buffer zone along our borders. Our armed forces are actively working to accomplish this task,” Putin said.

Russia has started to create a “security buffer zone” along the border with Ukraine as part of its efforts to strengthen defence, President Vladimir Putin announced during a meeting with government officials, reported TASS. “We have approved the creation of a necessary security buffer zone along our borders. Our armed forces are actively working to accomplish this task,” Putin said, without specifying where exactly the buffer zone will be created. Also read | ‘Didn’t get Zelenskyed’: South Africa’s Ramaphosa praised for calmly handling Trump White House showdown This is not the first time that the Russian President has talked about the creation of a buffer zone. Last year, Putin expressed plans to establish a buffer zone along its border with Ukraine up to 150 kilometres wide, referring to it as a sanitary zone. Also read | What is G7 Summit? White House confirms US President Donald Trump will visit Canada next month He stressed that given the ongoing developments in the Kursk, Belgorod, and Bryansk regions require immediate restoration and rebuilding of the areas. Moreover, rehabilitation of transport networks and other infrastructure is also essential to ensure the smooth operation of industrial and agricultural enterprises, and support entrepreneurs and their employees. Also read | ‘Hamas is not enemy, every child in Gaza is’: Israel minister's BOLD remarks stir controversy Putin tells Trump Russia foiled terror attack In a telephonic conversation with US President Donald Trump on May 19, Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed that Russia foiled a terror attack that was scheduled just ahead of the Victory Day celebration on May 9 at the Red Square and the Kremlin area. Putin's aide Yurii Ushakov revealed the details of the aforementioned call to the reporters of the Russian news agency TASS. Russia had allowed three days of cease-fire with Ukraine for the occasion of Victory Day. This lasted from May 8 to May 11. On May 7, Russia allegedly struck down 524 drones and Storm Shadow missiles launched towards it.

“We have approved the creation of a necessary security buffer zone along our borders. Our armed forces are actively working to accomplish this task,” Putin said.

Putin announces Russian troops creating buffer zone along Ukraine border

The European Union and Britain on Tuesday imposed a sweeping set of sanctions targeting Russia's "shadow fleet", calling it the largest-ever package they have targeted with.&nbsp;The European Council adopted the 17th package of economic and individual restrictive measures, including on Russia's shadow fleet for oil exports. Russia will end up losing access to the key military technology.&nbsp;The EU has now sanctioned 189 ships, which were suspected of operating with Russia's elusive "shadow fleet" of oil tankers. The package was supported by foreign ministers in Brussels, and it also targets individuals, companies and facilitators, who are using this operations.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-drone-attack-zelensky-trump-putin-talks-1747588774188">Also read: 'Putin wants war': Russia sends 273 drones across Ukraine in largest attack since war began, hours before Trump-Putin talks</a>&nbsp;Further, this makes the total number of targeted vessels to nearly 350. Reportedly, these vessels have been moving oil, petroleum products and sometimes, stolen Ukrainian grain, via discreet sea routes.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the UK also announced to impose its own package of sanctions, targeting over 100 individuals and entities. It sanctioned 18 more ships linked to the shadow fleet, along with Russian financial institutions, defence supply chains and energy interests.&nbsp;Russia responded to the sanctions by the EU and UK, saying it will not bow to ultimatums.<h2>What is Russia's shadow fleet?</h2>Russia’s “shadow fleet" is a collection of around 500 old and uninsured secret oil ships, mostly tankers, that are used by the government to secretly export oil across the world, thwarting Western sanctions.&nbsp;As they intend to hide their movements, the ships operate under fake names and often change their flags, so that they don't get tracked.&nbsp;Also known as the “dark fleet” or “ghost fleet, the "shadow fleet" is not an official naval group, but an informal and expansive fleet of vessels.&nbsp;They are given the name "shadow fleet" because of their nature of operation, as they operate in the shadows, remain untracked, unregistered and stay outside international shipping rules.<h2>Why does it matter for Russia?</h2>After Russia began its attempt to invade Ukraine in 2022, the West including the EU, UK, and the US has been imposing sanctions on the Kremlin, majorly targeting its oil exports, which is undoubtedly a major source of money for Russia.&nbsp;To keep selling oil and making money out of it, to fund its war in Ukraine, Russia began building this shadow fleet.&nbsp;According to a 2024 report by the Kyiv School of Economics, Ukraine has identified around 500 vessels as part of the network.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-unveils-ai-integrated-sukhoi-su-57m-fighter-jet-will-it-be-a-part-of-india-s-fleet-1747738345461">Also read: Russia unveils AI-integrated Sukhoi Su-57M fighter jet. Will it be a part of India's fleet?</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;

Russia’s shadow fleet is a collection of around 500 old and uninsured secret oil ships, mostly tankers, that are used by the government to secretly export oil across the world.

The European Union and Britain on Tuesday imposed a sweeping set of sanctions targeting Russia's "shadow fleet", calling it the largest-ever package they have targeted with. The European Council adopted the 17th package of economic and individual restrictive measures, including on Russia's shadow fleet for oil exports. Russia will end up losing access to the key military technology. The EU has now sanctioned 189 ships, which were suspected of operating with Russia's elusive "shadow fleet" of oil tankers. The package was supported by foreign ministers in Brussels, and it also targets individuals, companies and facilitators, who are using this operations. Also read: 'Putin wants war': Russia sends 273 drones across Ukraine in largest attack since war began, hours before Trump-Putin talks Further, this makes the total number of targeted vessels to nearly 350. Reportedly, these vessels have been moving oil, petroleum products and sometimes, stolen Ukrainian grain, via discreet sea routes. Meanwhile, the UK also announced to impose its own package of sanctions, targeting over 100 individuals and entities. It sanctioned 18 more ships linked to the shadow fleet, along with Russian financial institutions, defence supply chains and energy interests. Russia responded to the sanctions by the EU and UK, saying it will not bow to ultimatums. What is Russia's shadow fleet? Russia’s “shadow fleet" is a collection of around 500 old and uninsured secret oil ships, mostly tankers, that are used by the government to secretly export oil across the world, thwarting Western sanctions. As they intend to hide their movements, the ships operate under fake names and often change their flags, so that they don't get tracked. Also known as the “dark fleet” or “ghost fleet, the "shadow fleet" is not an official naval group, but an informal and expansive fleet of vessels. They are given the name "shadow fleet" because of their nature of operation, as they operate in the shadows, remain untracked, unregistered and stay outside international shipping rules. Why does it matter for Russia? After Russia began its attempt to invade Ukraine in 2022, the West including the EU, UK, and the US has been imposing sanctions on the Kremlin, majorly targeting its oil exports, which is undoubtedly a major source of money for Russia. To keep selling oil and making money out of it, to fund its war in Ukraine, Russia began building this shadow fleet. According to a 2024 report by the Kyiv School of Economics, Ukraine has identified around 500 vessels as part of the network. Also read: Russia unveils AI-integrated Sukhoi Su-57M fighter jet. Will it be a part of India's fleet?

Russia’s “shadow fleet" is a collection of around 500 old and uninsured secret oil ships, mostly tankers, that are used by the government to secretly export oil across the world.

What is Russia's Shadow Fleet? Here's why Putin needs it amid Ukraine war - Know as EU, UK slap new sanctions

A former Ukrainian politician, Andriy Portnov, was shot dead on Wednesday (May 21) morning outside the American School of Madrid in Pozuelo de Alarcón, one of the city's wealthiest suburbs.According to Spain’s interior ministry, unidentified gunmen opened fire as Portnov was getting into his black Mercedes-Benz. He had reportedly just dropped his children off at the private school, where classes had already begun. The attackers fired multiple shots, hitting him in the back and head, before fleeing into nearby woodland.Paramedics arrived shortly after but declared Portnov dead at the scene. Emergency services said he had suffered at least three gunshot wounds.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-drone-attack-zelensky-trump-putin-talks-1747588774188">'Putin wants war': Russia sends 273 drones across Ukraine in largest attack since war began, hours before Trump-Putin talks</a><h2>High alert at elite school</h2>The incident prompted a major police response. Authorities sealed off the school car park, and helicopters and drones were deployed to track down the attackers. So far, no arrests have been made, and the gunmen remain at large.Local media noted that this is the second high-profile shooting in Madrid in two years, raising fresh concerns over targeted attacks linked to foreign political disputes.<h2>Who was Andriy Portnov?</h2>Portnov, 52, had once served as a top aide to Ukraine’s former pro-Russian president Viktor Yanukovych. He played a major role in shaping laws that cracked down on protesters during Ukraine’s 2014 revolution, which ultimately led to Yanukovych’s ousting.Shortly after the revolution, Portnov fled Ukraine. By 2015, he was believed to be living in Russia and later moved to Austria. Reports suggest he had been residing in Madrid since at least April 2024.Portnov had faced multiple criminal investigations in Ukraine. In 2018, the country’s security agency, SBU, launched a treason case against him, accusing him of helping Russia during the annexation of Crimea. That case was later dropped in 2019.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-vladimir-putin-russia-needs-to-be-dealt-with-differently-after-meeting-with-zelensky-9005354">'Putin doesn’t want to stop the war': Trump says Russia needs to be 'dealt with differently' after meeting with Zelensky</a><h2>Sanctions and accusations</h2>In 2021, the US Treasury sanctioned Portnov, accusing him of trying to control Ukraine’s judicial system, influence legislation, and install loyalists in top legal roles. Although the European Union had earlier imposed sanctions, they were later lifted.Portnov remained a controversial figure with ongoing ties to Russia and was widely viewed as a key player in pro-Russian politics in Ukraine before his exile.Spain has seen a number of violent incidents involving Russians and Ukrainians since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.In 2022, a wave of letter bomb attacks targeted high-profile locations including the Ukrainian embassy and the Spanish prime minister’s office. A retired civil servant who opposed Western support for Ukraine was later convicted.Earlier in 2024, a Russian helicopter pilot who defected to Ukraine in a secret operation was found shot dead near Alicante.Last year, Spanish politician Alejo Vidal-Quadras survived a shooting in another upscale Madrid area. Five suspects were arrested, but the main gunman, a French-Tunisian national, remains missing.Police are now investigating whether Portnov’s killing is linked to similar political tensions or international actors.

Portnov, 52, had once served as a top aide to Ukraine’s former pro-Russian president Viktor Yanukovych. He played a major role in shaping laws that cracked down on protesters during Ukraine’s 2014 revolution, which ultimately led to Yanukovych’s ousting.

A former Ukrainian politician, Andriy Portnov, was shot dead on Wednesday (May 21) morning outside the American School of Madrid in Pozuelo de Alarcón, one of the city's wealthiest suburbs. According to Spain’s interior ministry, unidentified gunmen opened fire as Portnov was getting into his black Mercedes-Benz. He had reportedly just dropped his children off at the private school, where classes had already begun. The attackers fired multiple shots, hitting him in the back and head, before fleeing into nearby woodland. Paramedics arrived shortly after but declared Portnov dead at the scene. Emergency services said he had suffered at least three gunshot wounds. Also read: 'Putin wants war': Russia sends 273 drones across Ukraine in largest attack since war began, hours before Trump-Putin talks High alert at elite school The incident prompted a major police response. Authorities sealed off the school car park, and helicopters and drones were deployed to track down the attackers. So far, no arrests have been made, and the gunmen remain at large. Local media noted that this is the second high-profile shooting in Madrid in two years, raising fresh concerns over targeted attacks linked to foreign political disputes. Who was Andriy Portnov? Portnov, 52, had once served as a top aide to Ukraine’s former pro-Russian president Viktor Yanukovych. He played a major role in shaping laws that cracked down on protesters during Ukraine’s 2014 revolution, which ultimately led to Yanukovych’s ousting. Shortly after the revolution, Portnov fled Ukraine. By 2015, he was believed to be living in Russia and later moved to Austria. Reports suggest he had been residing in Madrid since at least April 2024. Portnov had faced multiple criminal investigations in Ukraine. In 2018, the country’s security agency, SBU, launched a treason case against him, accusing him of helping Russia during the annexation of Crimea. That case was later dropped in 2019. Also read: 'Putin doesn’t want to stop the war': Trump says Russia needs to be 'dealt with differently' after meeting with Zelensky Sanctions and accusations In 2021, the US Treasury sanctioned Portnov, accusing him of trying to control Ukraine’s judicial system, influence legislation, and install loyalists in top legal roles. Although the European Union had earlier imposed sanctions, they were later lifted. Portnov remained a controversial figure with ongoing ties to Russia and was widely viewed as a key player in pro-Russian politics in Ukraine before his exile. Spain has seen a number of violent incidents involving Russians and Ukrainians since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In 2022, a wave of letter bomb attacks targeted high-profile locations including the Ukrainian embassy and the Spanish prime minister’s office. A retired civil servant who opposed Western support for Ukraine was later convicted. Earlier in 2024, a Russian helicopter pilot who defected to Ukraine in a secret operation was found shot dead near Alicante. Last year, Spanish politician Alejo Vidal-Quadras survived a shooting in another upscale Madrid area. Five suspects were arrested, but the main gunman, a French-Tunisian national, remains missing. Police are now investigating whether Portnov’s killing is linked to similar political tensions or international actors.

Portnov, 52, had once served as a top aide to Ukraine’s former pro-Russian president Viktor Yanukovych. He played a major role in shaping laws that cracked down on protesters during Ukraine’s 2014 revolution, which ultimately led to Yanukovych’s ousting.

Who was Andriy Portnov? Exiled pro-Russia Ukrainian politician gunned down in Madrid

In a telephonic conversation with US President Donald Trump on May 19, Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed that Russia foiled a terror attack that was scheduled just ahead of the Victory Day celebration on May 9 at the Red Square and the Kremlin area.&nbsp;Putin's aide Yurii Ushakov revealed the details of the aforementioned call to the reporters of the Russian news agency TASS.Russia had allowed three days of cease-fire with Ukraine for the occasion of Victory Day. This lasted from May 8 to May 11. &nbsp;On May 7, Russia allegedly struck down 524 drones and Storm Shadow missiles. launched towards it.&nbsp;“Almost all of them were shot down. At the same time, threats of terrorist attacks in the centre of the capital - in the area of ​​the Kremlin and Red Square - were prevented,” said Yurii Ushakov.According to the report, this was done to intimidate the international delegates present in the capital at that time. No further details of the terror attack have been revealed by any official sources.On May 19, following a two-hour-long conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump declared that Russia and Ukraine would start ceasefire talks very soon. This was the third call between the two leaders, since Trump's inauguration for his second term.&nbsp;Following the call with Putin, President Trump had a phone call with Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskyy as well as leaders from the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Finland and the European Commission president.A report in the Financial Times claims that European leaders are not convinced about Mr Trump's willingness to put pressure on Putin to agree to an unconditional ceasefire deal. Putin earlier had openly rejected such talks. According to the report, European leaders were wary that Trump could end up agreeing to a deal with Putin, which is contrary to the interests of Ukraine.

In a two-hour-long conversation with US President Donald Trump. Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed the terror attack that was scheduled just ahead of the Victory Day celebration on May 9 at the Red Square and the Kremlin area. 

In a telephonic conversation with US President Donald Trump on May 19, Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed that Russia foiled a terror attack that was scheduled just ahead of the Victory Day celebration on May 9 at the Red Square and the Kremlin area. Putin's aide Yurii Ushakov revealed the details of the aforementioned call to the reporters of the Russian news agency TASS. Russia had allowed three days of cease-fire with Ukraine for the occasion of Victory Day. This lasted from May 8 to May 11. On May 7, Russia allegedly struck down 524 drones and Storm Shadow missiles. launched towards it. “Almost all of them were shot down. At the same time, threats of terrorist attacks in the centre of the capital - in the area of the Kremlin and Red Square - were prevented,” said Yurii Ushakov. According to the report, this was done to intimidate the international delegates present in the capital at that time. No further details of the terror attack have been revealed by any official sources. On May 19, following a two-hour-long conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump declared that Russia and Ukraine would start ceasefire talks very soon. This was the third call between the two leaders, since Trump's inauguration for his second term. Following the call with Putin, President Trump had a phone call with Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskyy as well as leaders from the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Finland and the European Commission president. A report in the Financial Times claims that European leaders are not convinced about Mr Trump's willingness to put pressure on Putin to agree to an unconditional ceasefire deal. Putin earlier had openly rejected such talks. According to the report, European leaders were wary that Trump could end up agreeing to a deal with Putin, which is contrary to the interests of Ukraine.

In a telephonic conversation with US President Donald Trump on May 19, Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed that Russia foiled a terror attack that was scheduled just ahead of the Victory Day celebration on May 9 at the Red Square and the Kremlin area.&nbsp;

Putin told Trump how Russia foiled a terror attack

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has commenced a fresh review of its $15.5 billion support programme for Ukraine, a country still reeling from over three years of war.&nbsp;&nbsp;As per Reuters, an IMF delegation arrived in Kyiv on Tuesday to conduct the eighth assessment under its four-year Extended Fund Facility (EFF) arrangement.&nbsp;&nbsp;The discussions will centre on Ukraine’s budgetary challenges, long-term economic reforms, and strategies to ensure debt sustainability.&nbsp;Ukraine’s Central Bank Governor, Andriy Pyshnyi, described the talks as “constructive and substantive”, adding that the IMF programme remains a vital source of economic resilience during the ongoing conflict.&nbsp; According to Reuters, the IMF team will also explore how Kyiv plans to fund its wartime budget, including through international assistance and domestic revenue mobilisation.&nbsp;While Ukraine has secured the financial resources needed to cover its 2025 budget deficit, estimated at nearly $38 billion, questions remain over the availability of global aid beyond this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;Most of the country’s domestic income is being used to fund defence operations, leaving Kyiv heavily dependent on Western partners to finance social and humanitarian spending.&nbsp;In addition to budgetary matters, the IMF will also assess the strength of Ukraine’s financial sector. Pyshnyi noted that talks will include improving regulations governing credit bureaus and enhancing financial market infrastructure measures seen as essential to preserving monetary stability in wartime conditions.&nbsp;Impact of war on Ukraine’s economy&nbsp;&nbsp;The IMF’s latest review comes against the backdrop of a severely weakened economy. Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine’s economic output has suffered a dramatic collapse.&nbsp;&nbsp;As reported by Reuters, gross domestic product (GDP) dropped by nearly 30 per cent in the first year of the war.&nbsp;&nbsp;Although modest growth was recorded in 2023 and 2024, Ukraine’s overall economic performance remains far below pre-war levels, according to World Bank&nbsp;estimates.&nbsp;The toll of the war extends far beyond GDP figures. Millions of Ukrainians have been forced to flee their homes, either relocating abroad or becoming internally displaced.&nbsp;&nbsp;The country’s physical infrastructure has also been severely damaged, with cities, industrial areas, transport networks, and energy systems targeted by missile strikes. The Kyiv School of Economics-estimates&nbsp;the total cost of war-inflicted damage to infrastructure and housing has exceeded $150 billion.&nbsp;Once a major agricultural exporter, Ukraine has struggled to maintain its role as a global grain supplier due to damaged ports and disrupted trade routes.&nbsp;&nbsp;These supply chain blockages have fuelled inflation and weakened government revenues.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, repeated attacks on the power grid have led to frequent electricity shortages, hindering industrial activity and daily life.&nbsp;The war has also placed Ukraine’s banking sector under immense pressure. Challenges such as rising non-performing loans, capital flight, and inflationary instability have further underlined the importance of IMF support and broader international aid.&nbsp;&nbsp;For now, financial assistance from partners remains Ukraine’s primary cushion against economic collapse.&nbsp;With international focus shifting to other geopolitical flashpoints, concerns are growing over whether donors will maintain the same level of commitment to Ukraine in 2026 and beyond.&nbsp;&nbsp;The outcome of this IMF review could play a decisive role in shaping Ukraine’s financial future, determining not only the sustainability of its public finances but also its ability to function as a stable state during wartime.

The IMF review discussion will centre on Ukraine’s budgetary challenges, long-term economic reforms, and strategies to ensure debt sustainability.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has commenced a fresh review of its $15.5 billion support programme for Ukraine, a country still reeling from over three years of war. As per Reuters, an IMF delegation arrived in Kyiv on Tuesday to conduct the eighth assessment under its four-year Extended Fund Facility (EFF) arrangement. The discussions will centre on Ukraine’s budgetary challenges, long-term economic reforms, and strategies to ensure debt sustainability. Ukraine’s Central Bank Governor, Andriy Pyshnyi, described the talks as “constructive and substantive”, adding that the IMF programme remains a vital source of economic resilience during the ongoing conflict. According to Reuters, the IMF team will also explore how Kyiv plans to fund its wartime budget, including through international assistance and domestic revenue mobilisation. While Ukraine has secured the financial resources needed to cover its 2025 budget deficit, estimated at nearly $38 billion, questions remain over the availability of global aid beyond this year. Most of the country’s domestic income is being used to fund defence operations, leaving Kyiv heavily dependent on Western partners to finance social and humanitarian spending. In addition to budgetary matters, the IMF will also assess the strength of Ukraine’s financial sector. Pyshnyi noted that talks will include improving regulations governing credit bureaus and enhancing financial market infrastructure measures seen as essential to preserving monetary stability in wartime conditions. Impact of war on Ukraine’s economy The IMF’s latest review comes against the backdrop of a severely weakened economy. Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine’s economic output has suffered a dramatic collapse. As reported by Reuters, gross domestic product (GDP) dropped by nearly 30 per cent in the first year of the war. Although modest growth was recorded in 2023 and 2024, Ukraine’s overall economic performance remains far below pre-war levels, according to World Bank estimates. The toll of the war extends far beyond GDP figures. Millions of Ukrainians have been forced to flee their homes, either relocating abroad or becoming internally displaced. The country’s physical infrastructure has also been severely damaged, with cities, industrial areas, transport networks, and energy systems targeted by missile strikes. The Kyiv School of Economics-estimates the total cost of war-inflicted damage to infrastructure and housing has exceeded $150 billion. Once a major agricultural exporter, Ukraine has struggled to maintain its role as a global grain supplier due to damaged ports and disrupted trade routes. These supply chain blockages have fuelled inflation and weakened government revenues. Meanwhile, repeated attacks on the power grid have led to frequent electricity shortages, hindering industrial activity and daily life. The war has also placed Ukraine’s banking sector under immense pressure. Challenges such as rising non-performing loans, capital flight, and inflationary instability have further underlined the importance of IMF support and broader international aid. For now, financial assistance from partners remains Ukraine’s primary cushion against economic collapse. With international focus shifting to other geopolitical flashpoints, concerns are growing over whether donors will maintain the same level of commitment to Ukraine in 2026 and beyond. The outcome of this IMF review could play a decisive role in shaping Ukraine’s financial future, determining not only the sustainability of its public finances but also its ability to function as a stable state during wartime.

According to Reuters, The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has delegation arrived in Kyiv on Tuesday to commenced a fresh review of its $15.5 billion support programme for Ukraine.&nbsp;

IMF launches key review of Ukraine’s $15.5 billion loan as war-hit economy faces deepening strain

Following a long phone conversation with Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that the war in Ukraine could be moving in the right direction. Speaking after the two-hour call, Putin claimed Moscow is prepared to start work on a draft agreement for a possible peace deal with Kyiv.“The call was very informative and helpful,” Russian news agency RIA reported.<h2>Moscow ready to draft peace terms</h2>Putin said Trump supported direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. He also noted that Trump recognised Moscow's willingness to move towards peace, though the next challenge would be deciding how to get there.“We have agreed with the president of the United States that Russia will propose and is ready to work with the Ukrainian side on a memorandum on a possible future peace accord, defining a number of positions, such as, for example, the principles of settlement, the timing of a possible peace agreement,” Putin told reporters in Sochi, near the Black Sea.He added that if an agreement could be reached, it could lead to a ceasefire. “Direct talks between Russia and Ukraine give reason to believe that we are generally on the right track,” he said.<h2>“Root causes” must be addressed, says Putin</h2>Putin went on to say that Russia's stance on the conflict remains firm. “I would like to note that, on the whole, Russia’s position is clear. The main thing for us is to eliminate the root causes of this crisis. We just need to determine the most effective ways to move towards peace,” he said.<h2>Peace only possible through compromise</h2>According to TASS, another Russian state media outlet, Putin said that any peace deal would require both sides to find common ground. He stated that Russia and Ukraine would need to agree on “compromises that suit both sides” before a ceasefire could happen.TASS also reported that Putin favours a “peaceful resolution of the Ukraine crisis” and is open to working with Kyiv to prepare a peace memorandum.Here's what Trump said

Putin said Trump supported direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. He also noted that Trump recognised Moscow's willingness to move towards peace, though the next challenge would be deciding how to get there.

Following a long phone conversation with Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that the war in Ukraine could be moving in the right direction. Speaking after the two-hour call, Putin claimed Moscow is prepared to start work on a draft agreement for a possible peace deal with Kyiv. “The call was very informative and helpful,” Russian news agency RIA reported. Moscow ready to draft peace terms Putin said Trump supported direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. He also noted that Trump recognised Moscow's willingness to move towards peace, though the next challenge would be deciding how to get there. “We have agreed with the president of the United States that Russia will propose and is ready to work with the Ukrainian side on a memorandum on a possible future peace accord, defining a number of positions, such as, for example, the principles of settlement, the timing of a possible peace agreement,” Putin told reporters in Sochi, near the Black Sea. He added that if an agreement could be reached, it could lead to a ceasefire. “Direct talks between Russia and Ukraine give reason to believe that we are generally on the right track,” he said. “Root causes” must be addressed, says Putin Putin went on to say that Russia's stance on the conflict remains firm. “I would like to note that, on the whole, Russia’s position is clear. The main thing for us is to eliminate the root causes of this crisis. We just need to determine the most effective ways to move towards peace,” he said. Peace only possible through compromise According to TASS, another Russian state media outlet, Putin said that any peace deal would require both sides to find common ground. He stated that Russia and Ukraine would need to agree on “compromises that suit both sides” before a ceasefire could happen. TASS also reported that Putin favours a “peaceful resolution of the Ukraine crisis” and is open to working with Kyiv to prepare a peace memorandum. Here's what Trump said

Putin said Trump supported direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. He also noted that Trump recognised Moscow's willingness to move towards peace, though the next challenge would be deciding how to get there.

‘Time for compromise’: Putin says Ukraine war talks ‘on the right track’ after Trump call

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From Ukraine to South Africa: 5 countries that abandoned their nuclear weapons and why

Ukraine has said that Russia launched its largest drone attack since the start of the full-scale war, with hundreds of drones targeting multiple regions, including the capital Kyiv. One woman was killed on the outskirts of the city and at least three others were injured.According to Ukraine’s air force, Russia had fired 273 drones by 08:00 on Sunday morning, hitting central areas such as Kyiv and the regions of Dnipropetrovsk and Donetsk in the east.Of the total drones, 88 were intercepted, while another 128 reportedly went off course without causing damage.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/99-russian-soldiers-die-for-every-kilometre-gained-in-ukraine-and-putin-doesnt-seem-to-care-9030092">‘Low quality troops, high casualties’: 99 Russian soldiers die for every kilometre gained in Ukraine and Putin doesn’t seem to care</a><h2>Attack comes before Trump-Putin call</h2>The drone strikes took place just one day before a scheduled phone call between former US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump has been pushing for a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict.Ahead of that conversation, leaders of key European nations, including Germany, France, Poland, and the UK, were expected to hold a virtual meeting with Trump on Sunday, according to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.<h2>Face-to-face talks yield little progress</h2>Friday saw the first direct meeting between Russian and Ukrainian officials in more than three years, held in Turkey. The discussions, however, led only to an agreement on a prisoner swap and no breakthrough on broader issues.Ukrainian officials expressed frustration, suggesting that Moscow had no real intention of ending the war."For Russia, the negotiations [on Friday] in Istanbul are just a pretence. Putin wants war," said Andriy Yermak, a senior adviser to President Volodymyr Zelensky.<h2>Russia shows no signs of de-escalation</h2>Ukrainian authorities believe the drone strikes are a clear sign that Moscow remains committed to continuing the war effort, despite rising calls for peace from the international community.Saturday night’s bombardment broke the previous record set on 23 February, when 267 drones were launched on the third anniversary of the full-scale invasion.<h2>Zelensky visits Vatican, meets new Pope</h2>Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was in the Vatican on Sunday, where he held a private meeting with Pope Leo following the pontiff’s inauguration mass. He also had a short discussion with US Vice President JD Vance during his visit to Rome.

The drone strikes took place just one day before a scheduled phone call between former US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump has been pushing for a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict.

Ukraine has said that Russia launched its largest drone attack since the start of the full-scale war, with hundreds of drones targeting multiple regions, including the capital Kyiv. One woman was killed on the outskirts of the city and at least three others were injured. According to Ukraine’s air force, Russia had fired 273 drones by 08:00 on Sunday morning, hitting central areas such as Kyiv and the regions of Dnipropetrovsk and Donetsk in the east. Of the total drones, 88 were intercepted, while another 128 reportedly went off course without causing damage. Also read: ‘Low quality troops, high casualties’: 99 Russian soldiers die for every kilometre gained in Ukraine and Putin doesn’t seem to care Attack comes before Trump-Putin call The drone strikes took place just one day before a scheduled phone call between former US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump has been pushing for a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict. Ahead of that conversation, leaders of key European nations, including Germany, France, Poland, and the UK, were expected to hold a virtual meeting with Trump on Sunday, according to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Face-to-face talks yield little progress Friday saw the first direct meeting between Russian and Ukrainian officials in more than three years, held in Turkey. The discussions, however, led only to an agreement on a prisoner swap and no breakthrough on broader issues. Ukrainian officials expressed frustration, suggesting that Moscow had no real intention of ending the war. "For Russia, the negotiations [on Friday] in Istanbul are just a pretence. Putin wants war," said Andriy Yermak, a senior adviser to President Volodymyr Zelensky. Russia shows no signs of de-escalation Ukrainian authorities believe the drone strikes are a clear sign that Moscow remains committed to continuing the war effort, despite rising calls for peace from the international community. Saturday night’s bombardment broke the previous record set on 23 February, when 267 drones were launched on the third anniversary of the full-scale invasion. Zelensky visits Vatican, meets new Pope Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was in the Vatican on Sunday, where he held a private meeting with Pope Leo following the pontiff’s inauguration mass. He also had a short discussion with US Vice President JD Vance during his visit to Rome.

The drone strikes took place just one day before a scheduled phone call between former US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump has been pushing for a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict.

'Putin wants war': Russia sends 273 drones across Ukraine in largest attack since war began, hours before Trump-Putin talks

From the Russia-Ukraine war to the conflict in Gaza, here are the top stories at this hour<h2>Stay tuned to WION for all LIVE updates</h2>

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (May 17) said that he would be dialling Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday, stressing that the agenda of the conversation will be "STOPPING THE BLOODBATH".<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-ceasefire-soon-trump-to-dial-putin-and-zelensky-subject-of-conversation-stopping-the-bloodbath-9079615">Click here to read more</a> <img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/dev/wion/images/2025/20250505/tNCauX3opsOWkLWCfO3E.png" alt="Russia-Ukraine ceasefire soon? Trump to dial Putin and Zelensky | Subject of conversation - 'STOP THE BLOODBATH'">&nbsp; &nbsp;

Russia-Ukraine ceasefire soon? Trump to dial Putin and Zelensky | Subject of conversation - 'STOP THE BLOODBATH'

Top News LIVE | Russia-Ukraine ceasefire soon?

From the Russia-Ukraine war to the conflict in Gaza, here are the top stories at this hour Stay tuned to WION for all LIVE updates

Here are the top stories at this hour

Russia&rsquo;s economy is showing signs of weakening, as official statistics reveal a sharp decline in growth in the first quarter of 2025. According to preliminary data released by the Federal State Statistics Service (Rosstat) on May 16, the country&rsquo;s gross domestic product (GDP) rose by just 1.4 per cent year-on-year. This marks a steep fall from the 4.5 per cent growth reported in the previous quarter and 5.4 per cent in the same period last year.
The slowdown came in below forecasts from both the Russian Economic Development Ministry, which predicted 1.7 per cent, and analysts at Bloomberg, who expected 1.8 per cent. Notably, Rosstat's quarter-on-quarter data showed the economy contracted by 0.4 per cent&mdash;its first quarterly decline since 2022&mdash;signalling growing economic vulnerability.
Experts have attributed the downturn to a combination of factors, including the central bank&rsquo;s high interest rate policy, persistent inflation, supply chain disruptions, and falling revenues from energy exports. From January to April, oil and gas revenues dropped by 10 per cent&mdash;a significant blow to a country that relies heavily on its energy sector.
<h2 dir="ltr">Economy in trouble?</h2>
Despite the troubling first quarter, Rosstat recently revised its GDP growth estimate for 2024 upward to 4.3 per cent, citing stronger-than-expected performance in the fourth quarter. However, doubts are growing about the reliability of Russia&rsquo;s economic statistics.
A report by the Stockholm Institute of Transition Economics (SITE) warned that the Russian economy&rsquo;s resilience is only superficial. It noted deepening structural weaknesses, unsustainable fiscal practices, and an overreliance on military-driven stimulus.
Reuters reported that Torbjorn Becker of SITE pointed to discrepancies in Russia&rsquo;s inflation and monetary policy data as evidence that real GDP growth may be overstated. &ldquo;Russia claims inflation is 9&ndash;10 per cent. Why then is the central bank&rsquo;s key rate set at 21 per cent?&rdquo; he asked, arguing that understated inflation leads to inflated real GDP figures.
The SITE report, presented to European Union finance ministers, further claimed that Russia&rsquo;s budget deficit is likely larger than officially reported due to off-the-books war financing via the banking system. Official figures cite deficits of 2.3 per cent of GDP in 2022, 1.9 per cent in 2023, and 1.7 per cent in 2024&mdash;yet SITE estimates suggest the real fiscal shortfall could be twice as large, raising concerns about looming banking sector risks.
<h2 dir="ltr">War and sanctions compounding economic pressure</h2>
The long-term impact of sanctions continues to weigh heavily on the Russian economy. The Russian Finance Ministry reportedly acknowledged &ldquo;hundreds of billions of dollars&rdquo; in direct losses to the financial sector, while energy export earnings fell by an estimated $78.5 billion between December 2022 and June 2024, according to the Kyiv School of Economics.
Russia&rsquo;s pivot to a war economy has led to a surge in military spending, but this has come at the cost of consumer sector stability. Civilian businesses are struggling under the burden of soaring interest rates and inflation.
In 2024, inflation reached 9.5 per cent, and bankruptcies rose 26 per cent year-on-year in the first three quarters, totalling 6,392 corporate insolvencies, according to Interfax.
Even as Moscow touts growth figures, Western analysts and institutions like the IMF are sceptical. The IMF estimates that while Russia&rsquo;s economy grew by 3.8 per cent in 2024, growth will slow to 1.4 per cent in 2025 and just 1.2 per cent in 2026.
<h2 dir="ltr">Peace talks, but no ceasefire yet</h2>
Adding to the uncertainty are recent developments in the ongoing war in Ukraine. On May 16, Russia and Ukraine held their first direct peace talks since early 2022, agreeing to a large prisoner swap involving 1,000 prisoners each. However, significant gaps remain, especially over the issue of a ceasefire.
Ukrainian officials, backed by Western allies, have insisted on a temporary ceasefire as a first step toward broader peace. Russia has so far resisted this proposal. The two sides exchanged ceasefire proposals and discussed a potential meeting between their presidents, though no agreements were finalised.
Analysts warn that any reduction in military spending following a peace deal could deliver a short-term shock to Russia&rsquo;s already strained economy. Conversely, failure to reach an agreement could trigger a new round of sanctions from the West, compounding existing pressures.
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Business & Economy: According to data released by Rosstat, Russia’s GDP rose by just 1.4 per cent year-on-year, a steep fall from the 4.5 per cent in the last quarter

Russia’s economy is showing signs of weakening, as official statistics reveal a sharp decline in growth in the first quarter of 2025. According to preliminary data released by the Federal State Statistics Service (Rosstat) on May 16, the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) rose by just 1.4 per cent year-on-year. This marks a steep fall from the 4.5 per cent growth reported in the previous quarter and 5.4 per cent in the same period last year. The slowdown came in below forecasts from both the Russian Economic Development Ministry, which predicted 1.7 per cent, and analysts at Bloomberg, who expected 1.8 per cent. Notably, Rosstat's quarter-on-quarter data showed the economy contracted by 0.4 per cent—its first quarterly decline since 2022—signalling growing economic vulnerability. Experts have attributed the downturn to a combination of factors, including the central bank’s high interest rate policy, persistent inflation, supply chain disruptions, and falling revenues from energy exports. From January to April, oil and gas revenues dropped by 10 per cent—a significant blow to a country that relies heavily on its energy sector. Economy in trouble? Despite the troubling first quarter, Rosstat recently revised its GDP growth estimate for 2024 upward to 4.3 per cent, citing stronger-than-expected performance in the fourth quarter. However, doubts are growing about the reliability of Russia’s economic statistics. A report by the Stockholm Institute of Transition Economics (SITE) warned that the Russian economy’s resilience is only superficial. It noted deepening structural weaknesses, unsustainable fiscal practices, and an overreliance on military-driven stimulus. Reuters reported that Torbjorn Becker of SITE pointed to discrepancies in Russia’s inflation and monetary policy data as evidence that real GDP growth may be overstated. “Russia claims inflation is 9–10 per cent. Why then is the central bank’s key rate set at 21 per cent?” he asked, arguing that understated inflation leads to inflated real GDP figures. The SITE report, presented to European Union finance ministers, further claimed that Russia’s budget deficit is likely larger than officially reported due to off-the-books war financing via the banking system. Official figures cite deficits of 2.3 per cent of GDP in 2022, 1.9 per cent in 2023, and 1.7 per cent in 2024—yet SITE estimates suggest the real fiscal shortfall could be twice as large, raising concerns about looming banking sector risks. War and sanctions compounding economic pressure The long-term impact of sanctions continues to weigh heavily on the Russian economy. The Russian Finance Ministry reportedly acknowledged “hundreds of billions of dollars” in direct losses to the financial sector, while energy export earnings fell by an estimated $78.5 billion between December 2022 and June 2024, according to the Kyiv School of Economics. Russia’s pivot to a war economy has led to a surge in military spending, but this has come at the cost of consumer sector stability. Civilian businesses are struggling under the burden of soaring interest rates and inflation. In 2024, inflation reached 9.5 per cent, and bankruptcies rose 26 per cent year-on-year in the first three quarters, totalling 6,392 corporate insolvencies, according to Interfax. Even as Moscow touts growth figures, Western analysts and institutions like the IMF are sceptical. The IMF estimates that while Russia’s economy grew by 3.8 per cent in 2024, growth will slow to 1.4 per cent in 2025 and just 1.2 per cent in 2026. Peace talks, but no ceasefire yet Adding to the uncertainty are recent developments in the ongoing war in Ukraine. On May 16, Russia and Ukraine held their first direct peace talks since early 2022, agreeing to a large prisoner swap involving 1,000 prisoners each. However, significant gaps remain, especially over the issue of a ceasefire. Ukrainian officials, backed by Western allies, have insisted on a temporary ceasefire as a first step toward broader peace. Russia has so far resisted this proposal. The two sides exchanged ceasefire proposals and discussed a potential meeting between their presidents, though no agreements were finalised. Analysts warn that any reduction in military spending following a peace deal could deliver a short-term shock to Russia’s already strained economy. Conversely, failure to reach an agreement could trigger a new round of sanctions from the West, compounding existing pressures.

Are deeper structural risks weighing Russian economy down?

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Are deeper structural risks weighing Russian economy down?