Ukraine-Russia War Update: Kyiv and U.S. Seal Critical Minerals Deal After Intense Talks

Live – Updated at 12:02 AM

Ukraine and the U.S. has declared They have secured an important mineral agreement. in the months following tense discussions.

On Wednesday in Washington, both nations announced signing an accord for a collaborative fund aimed at investing in Ukraine’s rebuilding process. A draft mentioned that Washington would have priority rights to new Ukrainian natural resource projects.

In acknowledgment of the substantial financial and material assistance that the citizens of the United States have offered for the defense of Ukraine since Russia 's full-scale invasion, this economic partnership positions our two countries to ... accelerate Ukraine's economic recovery," the US Treasury Department said.

In the meantime, Ukraine’s leading military official, Oleksandr Syrskyi, has stated that Russian troops have considerably increased their efforts. boosted the level of intensity clashes in eastern Ukraine occurred as President Vladimir Putin is publicly talking about wanting a ceasefire .

On Monday, the President of Russia made an offer temporary 72-hour ceasefire From May 8th to 10th to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the triumph of the Soviet Union and its Allies in World War II.

Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky suggests that these restricted ceasefires hold little value, and encouraged President Putin to consent to a temporary halt in hostilities for a minimum of thirty days.

According to officials, at least three individuals lost their lives and 70 others were wounded due to Russian assaults throughout Ukraine in the last twenty-four hours.

Key Points

• Ukraine and the US report they have struck a crucial minerals agreement.
• Ukrainian commander reports increased intensity of Putin's forces' combat actions despite discussions about a truce.
• Among the 45 people injured in the large-scale drone assault on Kharkiv were children and pregnant women.
• Putin is amenable to a peaceful resolution with Ukraine but not at the speed desired by the U.S., according to the Kremlin.

Lammy states Trump-Zelensky meeting suggests attempts at achieving peace.

00:02 , Tara Cobham

David Lammy stated that the meeting between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky during Pope Francis's funeral was indicative of the efforts being made to broker a peace agreement for Ukraine.

Over the weekend, images emerged of the Presidents of the U.S. and Ukraine conversing at the Vatican during their visit to attend the service in Rome.

On Wednesday, the Foreign Secretary informed the House of Lords International Relations and Defence Committee that both Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron have undertaken significant efforts in attempts to unite various countries behind a possible upcoming accord.

Ukraine's Prime Minister praises 'equitable' minerals agreement made with the USA

00:00 , Tara Cobham

Ukraine's prime minister has praised the mineral agreement made with the US as "fair and favorable."

Denys Shmygal stated: "Indeed, this represents a strategic agreement aimed at establishing an investment partner fund."

Truly, this is an equitable and beneficial global agreement for collaborative investment in developing and restoring Ukraine, jointly undertaken by the U.S. government and the Ukrainian government.

Bessent characterizes the agreement as enabling the U.S. to unleash Ukraine's potential for economic expansion.

23:56 , Tara Cobham

The Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, stated in a video shared on X that “this collaboration enables the U.S. to co-invest with Ukraine, unlocking potential within Ukraine’s growth resources. It also marshals American expertise, funds, and best practices in governance which will enhance Ukraine’s appeal for investors and expedite the country’s economic resurgence.”

Russian drones have damaged buildings and infrastructure in Ukraine's Odessa.

23:41 , Tara Cobham

Russian drones struck Ukraine’s Black Sea port city of Odesa early Thursday, igniting fires and causing damage to buildings and infrastructure, according to the regional governor.

No immediate report on injuries was available.

Oleh Kiper reported on the Telegram messaging platform that the enemy is using strike drones to attack Odessa. He noted significant destruction of civilian structures, mainly homes, adding that several fires had erupted throughout the area.

Images uploaded online revealed significant harm to the exterior walls of structures.

In Kharkiv, which is Ukraine’s second biggest city located in the northeastern part, Mayor Ihor Terekhov stated that a drone had hit a gas station downtown, leading to a blaze.

Terekhov didn't provide any additional information.

At what date is the agreement scheduled to go into effect?

23:39 , Tara Cobham

On Wednesday, the Ukrainian Cabinet gave approval for the agreement, authorizing Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko to sign it in Washington.

After being signed by both parties, the agreement would require approval from the Ukrainian Parliament to become effective.

Ukraine and the US report they've finalized an important agreement on critical minerals

23:18 , Tara Cobham

On Wednesday, both Ukraine and the U.S. announced the signing of an accord for a collaborative investment fund aimed at rebuilding Ukraine. According to the terms outlined in the document, this arrangement would grant Washington priority rights to newly emerging opportunities involving Ukrainian natural resources.

Following several months of often tense negotiations, the two nations finalized the agreement in Washington amid ongoing uncertainties. The situation remained precarious even at the final moment due to an unexpected last-minute hitch.

"In recognition of the significant financial and material support that the people of the United States have provided to the defense of Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion, this economic partnership positions our two countries to ... accelerate Ukraine's economic recovery," the US Treasury Department said.

A copy of the minerals agreement reviewed by Reuters provided the U.S. with priority rights to upcoming Ukrainian natural resource deals, though it didn’t grant automatic entitlement to shares of Ukraine’s mineral assets or its gas infrastructure for Washington.

This arrangement established a shared US-Ukrainian fund aimed at reconstruction efforts, which would be funded by receiving 50 percent of the profits and royalties generated by new natural resource permissions granted to the Ukrainian government.

View: How Rubio advocated for the U.S.'s role in supporting Ukraine

23:15 , Jane Dalton

The proposed mineral agreement between Ukraine and the U.S. tackles the crucial aspect of Ukraine’s security through links to the Budapest Memorandum, the document from 1994 that was signed by China, among others. Russia , Ukraine, the U.S., and the U.K.

It ensured Ukraine's security when it relinquished its large nuclear stockpile.

During a 2014 address, Marco Rubio, who is currently serving as the U.S. Secretary of State, fervently discussed America’s ethical obligation to support Ukraine in countering aggression following the country’s decision to relinquish its nuclear arsenal.

Marco Rubio underscores the importance of the U.S. supporting Ukraine in a reinstated address.

The US and Ukraine have agreed to establish a reconstruction investment fund, according to statements from Washington.

23:14 , Tara Cobham

On Wednesday, the US and Ukraine inked an agreement to set up a reconstruction investment fund, according to a statement released by the US Treasury Department.

"In recognition of the significant financial and material support that the people of the United States have provided to the defense of Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion, this economic partnership positions our two countries to work collaboratively and invest together to ensure that our mutual assets, talents, and capabilities can accelerate Ukraine's economic recovery," the Treasury Department said.

Ukrainian top official inked deal for US-Ukraine Reconstruction Fund

23:11

A high-ranking Ukrainian official announced on Wednesday that she had signed an accord for establishing a US-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund. This initiative aims to enhance the economic prospects of both nations and bolster Ukraine’s security as well.

"Alongside the United States, we are establishing a fund designed to draw international investments into our nation," noted First Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko on X.

The implementation of this initiative enables both nations to enhance their economic prospects via balanced collaboration and investments," she noted. "The United States will support the fund. Besides offering direct monetary aid, it might also supply ADDITIONAL help such as air defense systems for Ukraine.

The complete narrative: The Trump administration inked a minerals agreement with Ukraine as a significant step toward facilitating Russian peace talks.

23:01

The Trump administration struck an agreement with Ukraine to provide U.S. investors with priority access to Ukraine’s rare earth supplies minerals on Wednesday, several weeks following an Oval Office blow-up between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky put it on hold.

Axios and Bloomberg stated that the signing of the agreement was scheduled for Wednesday, according to high-ranking Ukrainian officials.

Zelensky's deputy economy minister informed Axios that the agreement aimed to encourage additional U.S. investments in Ukraine's defense sector instead of serving as repayment for previous assistance.

My colleague John Bowden has the full story:

The Trump administration signed a minerals agreement with Ukraine as a crucial step toward Russian peace negotiations.

The US and Ukraine ink an essential minerals agreement to establish an investment fund.

22:55 , Tara Cobham

The U.S. and Ukraine have entered into an economic pact aimed at "unleashing Ukraine’s growth potential" with plans to set up a reconstruction investment fund, according to the U.S. Treasury Department.

The agreement reached on Wednesday regarding Ukraine's natural resources will grant the U.S. priority access to new investment opportunities aimed at developing Ukraine's natural resources such as aluminum, graphite, oil, and natural gas, according to a report from Bloomberg.

Approximately 4,700 North Korean soldiers were either wounded or killed during their combat operations supporting Putin.

22:15 , Jane Dalton

If you didn’t catch it earlier:

4,700 North Korean troops reported injured or killed battling for Putin, reveals South Korea.

The EU braces itself as Trump plans to withdraw from peace negotiations

21:15 , Jane Dalton

The European Union is developing a backup strategy to maintain economic sanctions against Russia if the Trump administration withdraws from peace negotiations and attempts to improve relations with Moscow, according to Kaja Kallas, the EU’s high representative for foreign and security policy. Financial Times .

She indicated to the Financial Times that they are considering whether leaving Ukraine without seeking an agreement with the Russians might be best, as it has proven difficult.

"She told the newspaper that there is an alternative strategy, yet they must focus on the primary approach; as deviating from it could lead to undesired outcomes." She continued stating negotiations with both Washington and their global allies persist to maintain the current Western sanction framework.

In images: Protest supporting POWs and families of the disappeared

20:16 , Jane Dalton

Residents of Kyiv organized a demonstration to show solidarity with POWs and individuals who are missing, urging officials to take action in locating and repatriating their loved ones detained by Russia.

Kiev seeks final adjustments to agreement as per U.S. statement.

19:30 , Jane Dalton

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent mentioned that Ukraine is seeking to implement some final adjustments to a mineral resources agreement with the United States, and he stated that Washington is prepared to finalize the signing of the pact.

Mr. Bessent stated confidently during a Cabinet meeting at the White House that they will likely rethink their decision.

Russian President Putin claims Ukrainian combatants remain concealed in Kursk.

18:50 , Jane Dalton

The Russian President, Vladimir Putin, states that small units of Ukrainian troops remain barricaded in cellars and concealed locations within Russia’s western Kursk area.

Earlier this week, Mr. Putin called his senior military leaders in Kursk to celebrate what he termed as "victory." He marked the conclusion of their mission aimed at pushing back Ukrainian troops from the area. This development came following an incursion where Ukraine’s forces crossed over the border in August last year.

During an event in Moscow, the president stated that radio interceptions indicated that some remaining Ukrainians were requesting their commanders to swiftly arrange for their evacuation to safer areas.

Ukraine has stated that some of its troops remain within Kursk and in Russia's adjacent Belgorod region.

The US and Ukraine will have a 50-50 partnership in the agreement as per Trump’s shift: complete report.

18:18 , Jane Dalton

The US and Ukraine are poised to become equal 50-50 partners in a mineral agreement following a change from the Trump administration.

Russia will mend relations with European nations, Putin claims

17:54 , Jane Dalton

The Russian President, Vladimir Putin, expressed his certainty that Russia will eventually mend its relationships with European nations.

Before the 80th anniversary of Victory Day over Nazi Germany in Moscow, President Putin stated at a forum that many Europeans agree with Russia’s stance on various matters.

Ukraine provides additional information on the agreement

17:24 , Jane Dalton

Ukraine has implemented new clauses in the mineral rights agreement to tackle previous issues where the initial U.S. proposal, submitted in March, was perceived as heavily favoring American interests.

A sector insider involved in the talks mentioned that additional "specifics rather than mere statements" were incorporated into the document.

As stated by a Ukrainian official, multiple documents are part of this scenario, encompassing a principal contract along with not less than two technical pacts that detail the framework and functioning of the shared financial mechanism.

The official mentioned that Ukraine’s representatives were largely content with the progress of the accord as it developed after talks between both delegations.

A high-ranking official voiced optimism that no additional alterations would come from Washington.

The agreement needs approval from Ukraine's parliament.

Moscow asserts that a peace agreement cannot be reached swiftly.

16:59 , Jane Dalton

The Kremlin states that a swift resolution to end the conflict with Ukraine cannot be reached through negotiations.

US politicians claim China has sanctioned the deployment of mercenaries in Russia.

16:37 , Jane Dalton

U.S. lawmakers have requested the State Department to update them regarding Russia’s deployment of Chinese combatants in its conflict in Ukraine. In a letter addressed to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, they suggested that Moscow would likely not utilize Chinese mercenaries without receiving China’s “implicit consent.”

Earlier this month, Ukraine stated that their forces had apprehended two Chinese citizens in Eastern Ukraine, and they also mentioned that at least 155 Chinese individuals were engaged in combat alongside the Russians.

It put out footage of one of the men.

U.S. authorities characterized the individuals as mercenaries and indicated that they do not seem to be directly connected to the Chinese government.

Ukraine states that two additional agreement documents are still not prepared for signing.

16:21 , Jane Dalton

The U.S. desires for Ukraine to endorse two extra agreements alongside their mineral agreement, according to an informant who spoke with Reuters. Meanwhile, Kyiv believes these supplementary documents require further refinement.

What are Ukraine’s scarce rare earth minerals?

16:08 , Jane Dalton

The value of Ukraine's mineral deposits exceeds £12 trillion.

What are Ukraine's uncommon mineral resources, and what does the agreement with Trump entail?

The US will get priority for mineral permits but not for gas, according to the draft.

15:46 , Jane Dalton

As per the proposed agreement, the U.S. will secure preferential—but not sole—access to newly issued permits, licenses, and investment prospects for Ukraine’s natural resources. This arrangement does not apply to current agreements.

Earlier versions of the agreement mentioned during talks indicated that it would encompass Ukrainian natural gas infrastructure, one of the country's most prized possessions, according to sources familiar with the situation who spoke about it earlier this month.

However, natural gas infrastructure is not included in the draft viewed by Reuters.

Lapses in the proposed agreement

15:36 , Jane Dalton

An agreement anticipated to be finalized within one day grants the United States privileged entry into upcoming Ukrainian natural resource projects, though it doesn’t guarantee that Washington will directly receive part of Ukraine’s mineral riches, as indicated by a copy reviewed by Reuters.

The proposal outlines the establishment of a shared US-Ukrainian rebuilding fund. This fund would be entitled to half of the earnings and royalties generated for the Ukrainian government from newly issued permits related to natural resources within Ukraine.

This indicates that all subsequent American military aid provided to Ukraine will be considered part of the U.S.'s contribution to the shared fund.

However, the draft does not spell out how the joint fund's revenues will be spent, who benefits or who controls decisions about the spending.

A minerals agreement might be finalized within 24 hours once the specifics are settled.

15:15 , Jane Dalton

Ukraine and the United States might ink a minerals agreement within the coming 24 hours following the resolution of the last remaining specifics, according to Ukraine's prime minister.

The revised agreement has transformed into an authentic partnership deal, according to Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal’s televised comments, which might view future U.S. assistance as part of the contributions made towards the fund.

Minerals are crucial for U.S. military support to Kiev.

14:52 , Jane Dalton

For Kyiv, securing a mineral agreement with the US could be crucial for obtaining further military assistance from Washington.

Ukraine possesses reserves of titanium, a material utilized in the production of aircraft wings and various aerospace manufacturing processes.

It includes lithium, essential for various contemporary battery technologies, as well as uranium, which is utilized in nuclear power, medical devices, and weaponry.

In addition, it contains graphite and manganese, which are both utilized in the batteries of electric vehicles.

Negotiations had come to a halt earlier in the year following a contentious meeting in the Oval Office in February involving the presidents of the US and Ukraine.

The minerals agreement will be signed, parliamentary leader confirms.

14:42 , Sam Kiley

The speaker of Ukraine's parliament states that he expects a preliminary mining agreement between his nation and the United States to be finalized and signed in Washington later today after extensive discussions.

Oleksandr Morozkho stated that he would sign off on something, adding that if this doesn't conflict with our constitution, he'll vote in favor once the agreement is submitted to the Rada for approval.

"I am hopeful as well that the US Senate will ratify it," he stated.

Kiev Minister 'In Washington to Sign Minerals Deal Today'

14:39 , Jane Dalton

Ukraine is prepared to sign a landmark mineral resources agreement with the United States today, two senior Ukrainian officials have told the Associated Press.

The economy minister, Yulia Svyrydenko, is in Washington to finalize the technical aspects of the accord, according to the sources.

Initially, it wasn't evident whether the Trump administration had agreed to endorse the deal as well.

Apparently, three individuals were killed and 70 others wounded within a span of 24 hours.

14:37

Regional authorities report that at least three individuals died and 70 were wounded due to Russian assaults throughout Ukraine over the last day. Kyiv Independent has reported.

The Ukrainian Air Force reported that Russia launched 108 drones overnight, which included Iranian-made Shahed-type drones.

Why does the US have an interest in ancient rock formations dating back 2.5 billion years?

13:56 , Jane Dalton

How a 2.5-billion-year-old geological formation has become crucial in efforts to halt Russia’s invasion

Modi decides against attending Moscow's Victory Day festivities.

13:50 , Jane Dalton

Modi decides not to attend the Victory Day celebration in Moscow.

Ukraine states that Putin needs to cease discussing his desire for peace and start taking action.

13:15 , Arpan Rai

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha quickly reacted to the Kremlin's recent comments about a truce and asserted that Russia needs to demonstrate its commitment to seeking peace through actions rather than just words.

The senior Russian government spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, stated that finalizing an agreement to conclude the conflict between Russia and Ukraine is "far too intricate to achieve rapidly."

He stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin supports demands for a ceasefire prior to initiating peace talks, but emphasized that "before proceeding with this, some issues need clarification and certain subtleties require sorting out."

Kyiv promptly reacted to the statement and requested Russia to provide actions towards peace negotiations.

"Russia needs to cease discussing its preparedness for peace and instead take action by unconditionally consenting to an actual and lasting truce. Once hostilities have ceased, negotiations can commence—through any format that would lead to peace," stated Mr. Sybiha on X.

He stated, "Russia can show its sincere willingness to engage in peace negotiations by committing to an actual ceasefire lasting at least 30 days. Should Russia agree to a 60 or 90 day truce, we would be prepared as well."

Ukraine attacked a Russian arms plant, according to Kyiv's intelligence agency.

13:00 , Arpan Rai

The SBU, Ukraine's security service, conducted a drone attack on a defense production site in Russia, according to an SBU representative who spoke with Reuters today.

The official stated that the attack targeted the Murom Instrument-Building Plant, located 300 kilometers (186 miles) east of Moscow. According to EU sanctions designations, this facility manufactures components used in military ammunition.

Ukrainian commander reports Russian troops engaging in fiercer combat despite discussions of a truce.

12:41

Even though Russian President Vladimir Putin has claimed he wants a truce, his troops have notably escalated their fighting efforts in eastern Ukraine, according to Ukraine’s leading military official, Oleksandr Syrskyi.

"In spite of noisy declarations regarding their preparedness to halt hostilities during the May holidays, the aggressors (Russian forces) have notably intensified military operations, concentrating their primary efforts on the Pokrovsk area," stated General Syrskyi via Telegram.

Pokrovsk is among the most intense areas along the Ukrainian warfare front line, and over the last 24 hours, Russian troops have carried out offensive actions and moved closer to the area.

On Monday evening, Mr. Putin announced a three-day cease-fire set for May 8-10 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the triumph of the Soviet Union and its partners in World War II.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that these partial ceasefires hold little significance and has called on Mr. Putin to commit to an immediate halt in hostilities for a minimum of 30 days.

Zelensky's assistant cautions against removing sanctions on Russian airspace and aviation.

12:30 , Arpan Rai

The close aide of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged for sustained Western sanctions on Russia’s aviation industry, questioning why "Russians should have the liberty of air travel when Ukrainians can’t find safety within their own borders?"

Writing in The Guardian Today, Andriy Yermak, who leads Ukraine’s presidential office, stated that "restoring normal air traffic would eliminate a major limitation on Russian citizens' everyday activities, thus reducing any public pressure on Moscow to seek peace."

The leading Ukrainian authority highlighted the involvement of Russia's aerospace industry in "facilitating smuggling for their military," "evading global sanctions through the delivery of essential parts to sectors under sanction in Russia," as well as operating a charter service that transports Russian forces directly to the front lines of the conflict.

"These sanctions go beyond being simple inconveniences; they directly impede Russia’s continuing military actions in Ukraine and serve as a clear indicator of the repercussions from their aggressive behavior. Instead of dismantling these measures, we should expand upon the effectiveness of our present sanction framework," stated Mr. Yermak.

He stated, "The reality that Russian authorities have prioritized removing aviation sanctions within diplomatic circles highlights how impactful these measures have been."

Children and pregnant woman among 45 injured in massive drone attack on Kharkiv

12:00 , Arpan Rai

A minimum of 45 individuals sustained injuries in Kharkiv, among them a pregnant woman and two children, when numerous Russian drones bombarded the Ukrainian city yesterday evening.

Drones struck Dnipro city as well, resulting in at least one death, according to officials.

The mayor of Kharkiv, Ihor Terekhov, stated that multiple regions within the city, which have suffered from continuous assaults, were hit again last night.

Approximately 1.2 million residents currently inhabit Kharkiv, which is down from almost 2 million prior to Moscow’s invasion in February 2022.

Mr. Terekhov stated that there have been 16 attacks on Kharkiv.

An attack occurred at an apartment building along with private residences, a healthcare center, and civilian facilities.

Why Putin’s most recent truce is causing instant doubt

11:30 , Arpan Rai

Fewer than 48 hours following the U.S. presidency of Joe Biden, Donald Trump lashed out at Vladimir Putin For "tapping me along" regarding a peace agreement, the Russian president has declared another interim measure. ceasefire — this one planned to span over three days.

His grand declaration raised immediate suspicion over whether this was yet another stalling tactic from the most conniving of dictators. One designed to keep an increasingly frustrated White House happy: Mr Trump’s top diplomat has even talked this week of pulling out of the entire negotiating process.

The Kremlin stated that the ceasefire would be effective between 8 and 10 May, aligning with Russia’s Victory Day commemorating the triumph over Nazi Germany – this timing is probably intentional considering Putin’s frequent, entirely unfounded assertions about a "Neo-Nazi administration" controlling Ukraine. Ukraine justified his full-scale invasion.

Why Putin’s most recent truce is causing instant doubt

South Korea reports over 4,700 North Korean soldiers wounded or killed battling for Putin.

11:00 , Arpan Rai

Approximately 4,700 North Korean troops have been casualties while battling alongside Russia against Ukrainian forces, South Korea Today, the head of the country's intelligence agency briefed legislators.

The evaluation occurred two days later. North Korea verified for the first time that it had dispatched combat forces to assist Russia in reclaiming portions of the territory Kursk area that it lost control over due to an unexpected Ukrainian offensive last year.

During a private meeting of the parliamentary committee, South Korea’s National Intelligence Service reported that North Korea experienced 4,700 casualties, with 600 fatalities, related to involvement in Russia. Ukraine According to Lee Seong Kweon, one of the attendees at the meeting, these battlefronts were highlighted.

4,700 North Korean troops reported injured or captured while battling for Putin, claims South Korea.

Putin is receptive to a peaceful resolution for Ukraine but not at the speed desired by the U.S., according to the Kremlin.

10:22 , Arpan Rai

The Russian President, Vladimir Putin, has expressed openness towards achieving peace regarding the situation in Ukraine. Currently, extensive efforts are being made in collaboration with the United States; however, due to the complexity of the conflict, accomplishing swift advancements as desired by Washington poses significant challenges, according to statements from the Kremlin today.

Kremlin representative Dmitry Peskov stated that President Putin "is still receptive to political and diplomatic approaches for resolving this dispute."

Mr. Peskov stated that Russia's objectives should be accomplished and that Moscow would prefer to attain these goals through peaceful means.

He observed that Mr. Putin had shown openness to holding direct discussions with Ukraine, but incorrectly stated that no response has been received from Kyiv so far.

"We have not received any statements from Kyiv regarding this matter yet. Therefore, we are unsure if they are prepared or not," Mr Peskov informed journalists in English.

He similarly minimized President Donald Trump's attempts at peace-making.

“We recognize that Washington aims for rapid progress in this endeavor,” Mr. Peskov stated in English, though he also noted that the underlying issues fueling the conflict in Ukraine are far too intricate to be settled overnight.

Approximately 600 North Koreans died in the Ukrainian conflict, according to a South Korean legislator.

10:15 , Arpan Rai

Around 600 North Korean soldiers have died in battles fought alongside Russia against Ukraine, with approximately 15,000 deployed overall. According to South Korean legislators today, quoting the country’s intelligence service, these forces appear to exhibit enhanced combat skills.

On Monday, Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, stated that he had approved a military directive authorizing his forces to join Russian troops in combat operations within the conflict in Ukraine.

Ukrainian commander reports Russian troops engaging in fiercer combat despite discussions of a truce.

09:57 , Arpan Rai

Although President Vladimir Putin of Russia has expressed his desire for a ceasefire in public statements, Ukrainian armed forces' chief Commander Oleksandr Syrskyi reported an escalation in fighting activities by Russian troops in eastern Ukraine today.

"In spite of noisy declarations regarding their willingness to halt hostilities during the May holidays, the invaders (Russian forces) have substantially escalated the level of military operations, concentrating their primary efforts on the Pokrovsk area," stated General Syrskyi via Telegram.

Pokrovsk is among the most intense areas along the Ukrainian warfare front line, and over the last 24 hours, Russian troops have carried out offensive actions and moved closer to the area.

On Monday evening, Mr. Putin announced a three-day cease-fire from May 8 to May 10 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the triumph of the Soviet Union and its partners in World War II.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that these partial ceasefires hold little significance and has called upon Mr. Putin to commit to an immediate halt in hostilities for a minimum of 30 days.

Russia starts construction of a road bridge to North Korea, according to the Russian Prime Minister.

09:44 , Arpan Rai

Russia and North Korea have commenced building a road bridge across the Tumen River, which forms part of their efforts to bolster their strategic alliance, according to statements made by Russia’s prime minister today.

The proposed road bridge, which has long been debated, will span 850 meters (2789 feet) and connect to Russia’s highway network. President Vladimir Putin approved its construction when he visited North Korea in 2024.

Construction began today, according to Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, who deemed it a crucial milestone in Russo-North Korean ties. This information was relayed by the TASS state news agency.

The new bridge is under construction close to the current "Friendship Bridge," a railway structure that was inaugurated in 1959 following the Korean War.

The importance extends much further than merely an engineering project,” Mr. Mishustin was cited as stating. “This represents our shared commitment to bolstering friendly and amicable neighborliness and enhancing cross-regional collaboration.”

A recent investigation has revealed that Ukrainian journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna was horrifically tortured while in Russian captivity.

09:35 , Arpan Rai

Ukrainian journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna was subjected to severe torture during Russian captivity, received electric shocks, and had several internal organs removed, according to a collaborative media investigation.

Many indications of torture and mistreatment were discovered on the journalist’s remains handed over by Russia, stated Yurii Belousov, chief of the war crimes division at the Prosecutor General's Office. The specialists involved in the inquiry also noted evidence of electroshock torture inflicted upon Roshchyna.

A separate autopsy of Roshchyna’s remains in Ukraine revealed that her brain, eyes, and sections of her trachea were missing, according to an investigation conducted by the French journalism organization Forbidden Stories.

Ukrainian reporter Viktoriia Roshchyna suffered extreme torture while in Russian captivity.

Rubio states that specific Ukrainian proposals are required immediately, otherwise the U.S. will withdraw support.

09:30 , Arpan Rai

The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that this is an opportune moment for both Moscow and Kyiv to present tangible plans to conclude the conflict in Ukraine. He further emphasized that should there be no advancements, the United States will withdraw support.

Tammy Bruce, a spokeswoman for the State Department, quoted Mr. Rubio as stating that the moment had come when "both sides must provide concrete proposals on how to bring this conflict to an end."

"The course of action moving forward rests with the president. Should there be no advancement, we will withdraw our role as mediators in this process," Ms Bruce stated during a routine press briefing, referencing President Donald Trump.

Zelensky's assistant cautions against removing sanctions on Russian airspace and aviation.

09:15 , Arpan Rai

The close advisor to Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged for sustained Western sanctions against Russia’s aviation industry, questioning why "Russians should have the liberty of air travel when Ukrainians can’t find safety within their own borders?"

Writing in The Guardian Today, Andriy Yermak, who leads Ukraine’s presidential office, stated that "restoring normal air traffic would eliminate a significant constraint on Russian citizens' everyday activities, thus reducing any public pressure on Moscow to seek peace."

The leading Ukrainian authority highlighted the involvement of the Russian aerospace industry in "aiding smuggling operations for their military," "evading global sanctions through the delivery of essential parts to sectors targeted by these restrictions," as well as operating a charter service that transports Russian forces directly to combat zones at the forefront of the conflict.

He stated, "The reality that Russian authorities have prioritized removing aviation sanctions within diplomatic circles highlights how impactful these measures have been."

Why Putin’s most recent truce is causing instant doubt

08:45 , Arpan Rai

Fewer than 48 hours following the U.S. presidency of Donald Trump, Donald Trump lashed out at Vladimir Putin For "tapping me along" regarding a peace agreement, the Russian president has declared another interim measure. ceasefire — this one planned to last for three days.

His major announcement immediately sparked doubts about whether this might be just another delaying ploy from one of history's craftiest tyrants. A strategy meant to pacify an ever more exasperated West Wing: In fact, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo mentioned earlier this week the possibility of withdrawing completely from the negotiation process.

The news received a substantial amount of skepticism in Ukraine. The Ukrainian President responded accordingly. Volodymyr Zelensky Even implicated Mr. Putin in "another instance of Russian interference" aimed at pleasing Mr. Trump.

Kyiv , which had previously consented to Trump’s suggestion for a complete 30-day ceasefire, alleged that Moscow breached a comparable short-term truce over Easter.

Mr Zelensky accused Russia of exploiting that lull for its own advantage, stating that Russian offensives continued across various fronts, artillery bombardments remained constant, and strikes against energy facilities showed no letup.

"Putin is hesitant to inform President Trump straightforwardly about his desire to prolong this conflict and continue harming Ukrainians," he posted on X on Tuesday.

Why Putin’s most recent truce is causing instant doubt

Trump believes that Putin desires peace in Ukraine even though there have been recent assaults.

08:30 , Arpan Rai

President Donald Trump stated that he believes Russian President Vladimir Putin intends to halt the conflict in Ukraine, even though there have been ongoing assaults against the country.

When interviewed by ABC News' Terry Moran, Mr. Trump replied, "I believe he does," when questioned about whether Mr. Putin wishes to establish peace.

“If it wasn’t for me, I believe he’d be aiming to control the entire nation,” stated Mr. Trump. “Let me say this: seeing Putin launch missiles into several towns and cities did not please me at all.”

Zelensky alleges that Russia is 'planning something' with military exercises being used as cover in Belarus.

06:07 , Arpan Rai

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has cautioned that Russia is "getting ready for something" in Belarus this summer, potentially utilizing military exercises as cover.

"This summer Russia is preparing something there, under cover of military exercises,” Mr Zelensky told a summit in Warsaw, without giving details or citing evidence. Russia and Belarus have announced joint military drills for September.

Rubio says concrete Ukraine proposals needed now or US will step back

04:53 , Arpan Rai

The U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, has stated that this is an opportune moment for both Moscow and Kyiv to present solid plans aimed at concluding the conflict in Ukraine. He further emphasized that should these efforts not yield advancements, the United States will withdraw support.

The State Department spokesperson, Tammy Bruce, quoted Mr. Rubio as stating that it was time for both sides to present "specific plans on how to resolve this conflict."

"The course of action moving forward is now the responsibility of the president. Should there be no advancement, we will withdraw our role as mediators in this process," Ms Bruce stated during a routine press briefing, referencing President Donald Trump.