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Ukraine Strikes Key Russian Oil Refinery as Moscow Tests Hypersonic Missile

Kyiv/Moscow – Ukraine targeted a major Russian oil refinery over the weekend as both nations intensified aerial strikes on critical infrastructure, while Russia launched a hypersonic missile in a show of military strength amid escalating hostilities in the war’s fourth year. The Ukrainian military said it successfully hit the Kirishi oil refinery in Russia’s Leningrad region, a significant facility in one of the world’s top oil-exporting countries. Ukrainian officials described the attack as a “successful strike,” citing explosions and fire at the site, though the extent of the damage remains unverified. Leningrad regional Governor Alexander Drozdenko confirmed the refinery was targeted by three drones, which were destroyed. Debris sparked a fire that was quickly extinguished, and no injuries were reported. The strike comes as Ukraine vows to continue targeting infrastructure used by Russia to transport troops, fuel, and ammunition to front-line positions. Ukrainian forces reported downing 164 drones and a ballistic missile during overnight attacks, while Russia claimed to have intercepted 361 drones and multiple HIMARS rockets. Amid the ongoing drone warfare, Russia’s Ministry of Defence announced the test launch of a Zircon hypersonic missile from the Admiral Golovko frigate in the Barents Sea. The missile launch was part of the “Zapad” (West) joint strategic exercises with Belarus, which also included long-range anti-submarine aircraft and Su-34 fighter-bombers conducting simulated strikes on ground targets. Meanwhile, cross-border instability continues to ripple across the region: Ukraine has not officially claimed responsibility for the railway incidents but reiterated its commitment to disrupting Russia’s military logistics. In a related development, Ukrainian military leadership revealed potential plans to reduce mobile internet quality in targeted regions to prevent Russian drones from transmitting images in real time. On the diplomatic front, U.S. President Donald Trump stated he would support new sanctions against Russia only if all NATO allies agree to cease oil imports from Moscow and implement coordinated sanctions. As drone strikes and military exercises escalate, NATO announced a new security initiative—Eastern Sentry—to reinforce its eastern flank. Secretary-General Mark Rutte said the operation will involve allied assets from Denmark, France, the UK, and Germany. “This military activity will commence in the coming days,” Rutte said, alongside U.S. General Alexus Grynkewich, NATO’s top European commander. The surge in military action and cross-border incidents underscores growing tensions as the war grinds on, with both sides leveraging technology and strategic infrastructure attacks in an increasingly volatile conflict.

Trump and Putin both agree: Blame falls on Europe as Ukraine peace effort languishes

Trump and Putin Align in Blame Game as Ukraine Peace Talks Stall

Fola Badmus2 weeks ago2 weeks ago06 mins

Amid stagnant peace efforts in Ukraine, US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have found rare alignment—blaming Europe for the continued impasse. This comes three weeks after their high-profile summit in Alaska, which ended with no concrete outcomes. In a Thursday call with European leaders, Trump urged the continent to do more to cut economic ties with Russia, particularly oil purchases, which he claimed generated €1.1 billion for Moscow in just one year. “Europe must stop purchasing Russian oil that is funding the war,” a White House official stated. The call followed Trump’s comments that he plans to speak with Putin again, even as the Russian leader continues to ignore multiple peace deadlines. Trump’s approach, while forceful in tone, has been vague on enforcement. “If we’re unhappy about it, you’ll see things happen,” he said, without elaborating. Despite Europe’s efforts—like last week’s Paris summit where 26 nations agreed to provide forces for a future peacekeeping mission—Trump’s administration has offered limited commitment and continues to pressure Europe and China, without applying equivalent pressure to Beijing directly. Double Standards and Shifting Alliances Trump’s foreign policy is increasingly seen as transactional and unpredictable. While demanding European action on Russian oil, he has refrained from sanctioning China, citing ongoing trade talks. Meanwhile, India has faced punitive tariffs from Trump for buying Russian oil—further straining relations with the strategic partner and pushing New Delhi closer to Beijing and Moscow. This week, Chinese President Xi Jinping gave Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi a warm welcome, with Modi even seen riding in Putin’s limousine—mirroring Trump’s recent public camaraderie with the Russian president. Russia Pushes for Division Putin, meanwhile, has ramped up efforts to fracture NATO unity, accusing Europe of “hysteria” over alleged Russian military threats. “Russia has never had, does not have, and will never have any desire to attack anyone,” he claimed during meetings with leaders like Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico in Beijing. In a symbolic echo of Alaska, Putin warned Europe not to “throw a wrench” in his negotiations with Trump. Simultaneously, suspected GPS jamming of a plane carrying EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was blamed on Russia—though Moscow dismissed the claim as “fake.” Security Guarantees, but No Breakthrough At the Paris summit, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that 26 countries had pledged contributions to a future peacekeeping or reassurance force for Ukraine, should a deal be reached. Macron also emphasized the need for an “American safety net”, indicating that US support—however limited—remains crucial. However, no firm meeting between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is in sight. While Putin offered to host Zelensky in Moscow, Kyiv views the offer as a non-starter, citing security risks and a likely political trap. There are also concerns that Putin could weaponize a bilateral meeting to undermine Zelensky in Trump’s eyes. Analysis: Big Rhetoric, Few Results Despite dominating headlines with high-stakes diplomacy, Trump appears increasingly frustrated with the lack of progress—yet unwilling to deploy the leverage or consistency needed to change course. His tendency to scold allies, court adversaries, and avoid firm commitments has left both Ukraine and US allies guessing. As Putin continues to exploit divisions and as Trump balances contradictory goals, the only clear outcome is continued gridlock, while Ukraine waits for real peace—and real guarantees.

Putin Warns Western Troops in Ukraine Would Be Legitimate Targets

Fola Badmus2 weeks ago2 weeks ago05 mins

VLADIVOSTOK, Russia – Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that any deployment of foreign troops to Ukraine as part of Western-backed security guarantees would be treated as a “legitimate target” by Russian forces, rejecting international efforts to shore up post-war security in the region. The statement, delivered Friday during the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, comes after 26 countries pledged to provide troops to Ukraine in the event of a peace agreement with Russia, a plan proposed at a summit in Paris the day prior. “If some troops appear there, especially now during the fighting, we proceed from the premise that they will be legitimate targets,” Putin said. He added that any foreign military presence would undermine, not support, long-term peace efforts. Putin insisted that Ukraine’s growing military alignment with the West remains one of the “root causes” of the war, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. “If decisions are reached that lead to peace, to long-term peace, then I simply do not see any sense in their presence on the territory of Ukraine, full stop,” he said. The summit of what has been dubbed a “coalition of the willing” saw several NATO and EU member states agree to send troops to Ukraine to deter future Russian aggression—particularly if peace is brokered through ongoing diplomatic efforts, including those reportedly being pursued by former U.S. President Donald Trump. However, questions remain over the level of U.S. participation. While some Western leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, were physically present at the Paris summit, others, such as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, joined remotely. Trump, who has opened direct communication channels with Moscow, has previously said the U.S. would not commit ground troops but might offer other forms of military support, such as air power. Speaking after the summit, Trump confirmed he would be speaking with Putin soon. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that such a call could be arranged “quickly” if needed. Peskov also sharply criticized the Paris proposal, calling it “definitely not acceptable.” He said any deployment of international or NATO troops near Russia’s borders would be seen as a direct threat. Instead, he pointed to the 2022 Istanbul peace framework, in which Ukraine would agree to a neutral, non-nuclear status and forgo NATO membership, in exchange for security assurances from major powers including Russia, the U.S., China, the UK, and France. While the Kremlin continues to reference the Istanbul framework, Western leaders have highlighted Russia’s repeated violations of past agreements, particularly between 2014 and 2022, when Moscow-backed separatists fought Ukrainian forces in eastern Ukraine. Under the Paris summit’s proposal, a “reassurance force” would patrol Ukrainian territory to enforce any post-conflict agreement. The plan is seen by some as a response to mounting concerns over Trump’s stance on the war and fears that a second Trump presidency could embolden the Kremlin. Putin reiterated that any future security arrangement must account for Russia’s interests, not just Ukraine’s. “I repeat once again, of course, Russia will implement these agreements. But, in any case, no one has discussed this with us at a serious level yet,” he said.

Ukraine War: Trump Says Zelenskyy Can End War as Russian Strike in Kharkiv Kills Seven

Fola Badmus1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to meet Donald Trump at the White House today, with discussions expected to focus on possible ceasefire arrangements and the future of U.S. support for Ukraine. The talks come amid heightened tensions following a deadly overnight Russian missile strike on the eastern city of Kharkiv, which killed at least seven civilians and injured dozens more. Trump’s Remarks Ahead of Talks Speaking to reporters en route to Washington, Trump said he believed Zelenskyy had the ability to “end the war,” though he did not clarify whether he envisioned concessions to Russia as part of a potential settlement. He reiterated his stance that the U.S. would not pursue new business or diplomatic openings with Moscow until the conflict was “settled,” suggesting a possible shift in tone while maintaining pressure on the Kremlin. European Support for Zelenskyy Ahead of the White House meeting, several European leaders pledged continued backing for Ukraine. Officials in Brussels and Berlin emphasized that any negotiations should not compromise Ukraine’s territorial integrity. Zelenskyy is expected to present a renewed appeal for sustained U.S. military and financial aid, particularly as concerns grow over battlefield losses and Russia’s intensified air campaign. Kharkiv Under Fire In the early hours of this morning, Russian forces launched missile strikes on residential districts in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city. Local authorities confirmed seven deaths and said rescue workers were still searching for survivors in the rubble. The strike is the latest in a series of escalations targeting civilian areas, which Kyiv has denounced as acts of terror designed to weaken public morale. What’s Next The outcome of today’s White House talks could prove pivotal. If Trump signals willingness to broker a ceasefire or peace talks, it may open a new phase in the nearly four-year conflict. However, Ukraine’s leadership continues to insist that any agreement must ensure sovereignty and security guarantees, while Russia shows no sign of backing down militarily.

Trump: No Business With Putin Until War Settled Zelenskyy Says Ukraine Is Counting on US

Fola Badmus1 month ago1 month ago02 mins

As President Donald Trump heads to Alaska for a high-stakes summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin, he underscored that no business dealings between the U.S. and Russia will take place until the war in Ukraine is “settled”—a clear signal of linkage between economic engagement and progress on peace. On board Air Force One, Trump conveyed his hope that the Alaska meeting could pave the way for broader diplomacy, with potential follow-up talks involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. “I’m not here to negotiate for Ukraine, I’m here to get them at a table,” he stated, emphasizing that any territorial discussions must be decided by Kyiv. President Zelenskyy—excluded from the summit—stressed Ukraine’s reliance on American leadership. He called for genuine engagement that leads to a “just peace” and urged inclusion in future negotiations, asserting that without Ukraine’s input, any decision would be meaningless. The meeting takes place against a backdrop of rising tensions and persistent skepticism. Trump’s linkage of business engagement to conflict resolution reflects his approach, while critics remain wary that sidelining Ukraine undermines both the peace process and Ukraine’s sovereignty.

Crunch Time in Alaska: Trump and Putin Meet in Bid for Ukraine Peace

Fola Badmus1 month ago1 month ago04 mins

US and Russian officials are gathering in Alaska ahead of a pivotal Friday meeting between Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin — their first in six years. Trump hopes the talks will deliver on his campaign promise to end Russia’s war in Ukraine, leveraging what he describes as a personal rapport with Putin to secure a ceasefire. Despite his optimism, Trump has estimated only a “25% chance” of success. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has been excluded from the talks, warning that any deal struck without Kyiv’s participation will be meaningless. Anchorage remains largely business-as-usual, aside from the influx of international media. The meeting will take place on a US military base, reflecting both heightened security and the brief nature of the talks, expected to last just a few hours. The summit comes a week after Trump’s deadline for Russia to agree to a ceasefire or face new sanctions. That countdown was effectively paused after the meeting was announced, buying both sides more time. Washington’s tone over the week has swung between optimism, caution, and threats of “very severe consequences” if Putin refuses to end the war. Kyiv grew uneasy when Trump floated the idea of “territory swaps,” while the White House hinted the president might adopt a “listening” approach. Russia has remained publicly silent, reiterating only that peace is possible if it gains full control of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia, and if Ukraine pledges not to join NATO. For Trump, success in Alaska could reinforce his image as a global dealmaker and deliver on his promise to disengage the US from costly foreign conflicts. He claims he will know “in the first two minutes” whether a deal is possible. European leaders, also excluded from the talks, emerged cautiously hopeful after a last-minute call with Trump. Zelensky, however, has been firm: Ukraine will not cede the Donbas, calling such concessions a “pathway to further conflict.” Trump has promised to brief Zelensky after the summit and floated the idea of a quick three-way meeting. The Kremlin, however, insists a direct Putin–Zelensky encounter is premature. Analysts warn Putin’s central goal remains Ukraine’s “geopolitical neutralisation” — an objective he is unlikely to abandon. As both leaders head into the Alaska talks, the venue may offer common ground geographically, but politically, the divide appears as wide as ever.

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Ukraine War Update: Zelenskyy Meets Starmer; Kremlin Confirms Trump-Putin Summit Plans

Fola Badmus1 month ago1 month ago02 mins

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Downing Street on August 14, highlighting Britain’s continued support for Ukraine ahead of the upcoming U.S.–Russia summit in Alaska. Starmer reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to Ukraine’s territorial integrity and warned that further pressure could be applied to Russia if necessary. The meeting comes at a critical moment, as the Kremlin confirmed that Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will hold a one-on-one meeting this Friday at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska. Following the private discussion, their delegations will join for broader talks, concluding with a joint press conference. This will be the first in-person meeting between Trump and Putin since 2019. It has raised concerns among European leaders, who fear Ukraine’s interests could be sidelined during negotiations. Many have stressed that any resolution to the conflict must not undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty. Trump has described the summit as a “listening exercise,” with the aim of exploring possible ceasefire arrangements. He has also indicated that economic measures could be considered if diplomatic progress stalls, while Putin has framed the talks as an opportunity to address security concerns and “reset” strained relations.

Trump Gives Russia 10–12 Days to End Ukraine War: “No Reason in Waiting”

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Turnberry, Scotland — July 28, 2025U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a sharp new ultimatum to Russian President Vladimir Putin, demanding an end to the ongoing war in Ukraine within 10 to 12 days — significantly reducing the 50-day deadline he initially set earlier this month. Speaking during a press conference alongside UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump expressed frustration with Russia’s continued military offensive in Ukraine and signaled growing impatience with the lack of progress toward a ceasefire. “I’m going to make a new deadline of about … 10 or 12 days from today,” Trump said. “There’s no reason in waiting. We just don’t see any progress being made.” The Kremlin has yet to issue a formal response. Trump’s warning comes as Moscow intensifies airstrikes across Ukraine, despite several diplomatic overtures from the U.S. and its European allies. A recent ceasefire deal remains in limbo, with Russian forces reportedly escalating attacks in key areas including Kyiv and eastern border regions. The U.S. president, who returned to office this year with a promise to end the conflict within 24 hours, continues to present himself as a peacemaker, but has faced criticism for his mixed signals. Though he has repeatedly threatened sanctions and tariffs on Russia and countries buying Russian exports, his administration has been cautious in implementing such measures. “I don’t want to do that to Russia. I love the Russian people,” Trump said Monday.“But if you know what the answer is going to be, why wait?” Trump also expressed disappointment with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, whom he accused of stalling peace efforts. He referenced past conversations with Putin, saying: “We thought we had that settled numerous times, and then President Putin goes out and starts launching rockets into some city like Kyiv and kills a lot of people in a nursing home or whatever. And I say that’s not the way to do it.” With tensions rising and the international community watching closely, the next 10 days could prove critical for diplomatic relations — and for Ukraine’s war-ravaged future.