A view of the sea

Putin Flexes Military Might Ahead of Trump Call

On May 18, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin launched the largest drone attack on Ukraine since the war began, signaling a show of strength before a scheduled call with U.S. President Donald Trump

Russia deployed 273 drones across Ukraine, resulting in the death of one woman and injuries to at least three others. The attack caused significant damage to residential areas

Ukrainian intelligence reported that Russia planned to test-launch an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on the same day, further escalating tensions with the West

President Trump announced plans to speak with Putin to halt the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, expressing hope for a ceasefire and emphasizing that the war "should have never happened" 

Leaders from France, the UK, Germany, and Italy held joint talks with Trump, urging Putin to accept a 30-day unconditional ceasefire and warning of additional sanctions if Russia fails to comply

Recent face-to-face peace talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul ended without progress, as Russian conditions were deemed unacceptable by Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Rome, reaffirming Ukraine's readiness for diplomacy

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