RUSSIAN – UKRAINE WAR UPDATES ON 11.05.2025 | SITUATION UPDATE

1. Introduction / Background

As the war enters its 1,172nd day, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to escalate despite international calls for peace. On May 10, Ukraine and four European leaders proposed a30-day ceasefire to begin Monday, but Russian President Vladimir Putin rejected the offer, instead suggesting direct talks without preconditions. Fighting remains intense along several frontlines, with Russia accused of violating its own declared ceasefire by continuing drone and artillery strikes. Meanwhile, international efforts intensify to hold Moscow accountable, and geopolitical tensions persist across military, diplomatic, and economiforcen.

2. Key Highlights

• Killed: At least 5 civilians were confirmed killed by Russian attacks, including 3 in Sumy and 1in Kherson.
• Ukraine reports 117civilian deaths since it first expressed willingness for a ceasefire on March 11
• Injured: At least16 civilians were injured in the latest attacks.

• Over 1,000 civilians have reportedly been injured since March 11 in Russian aerial assaults.
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• Homes Destroyed: Multiple homes and infrastructure were reportedly damaged across southern regions and border zones, though specific figures are not confirmed.

3. Governments’ Response

Ukraine, alongside leaders from the UK, France, Germany, and Poland, urged Russia to accept a30-day ceasefire, warning of new sanctions targeting energy and banking sectors if Moscow refuses.

Putin rejected the cease but offered direct talks in Istanbul, sparking skepticism from Kyiv and its allies.

UK PM Keir Starmer declared that Russia is the only barrier to peace and emphasized a unified internationalfront4. Military Developments

Despite Russia's declared ceasefire from May 8–10, Ukrainian forces reportedly attempted border incursions into Russia’s Kursk and Belgorod regions. The Ukrainian military continues to resist Russian advances while preparing for a possible large-scale air attack as warned by the U.S. embassy in Kyiv.

4. Military Developments

Russian forces advanced through Rivnopil, Novosilka, and Vilne Pole, but Ukrainian drones halted their progress before they could entrench

Over 200 Russian attacks were recorded in the past 24 hours, despite a declared ceasefire.

Russia pulled 280+ missile systems from various regions to secure Moscow’s Victory Day parade, creating vulnerabilities now exploited by Ukrainian forces

Ukraine attempted cross-border operations into Belgorod and Kursk, according to Russian reports.

5. Militants’ Activity

Ukrainian drones continue to dominate the battlefield, targeting troops supply lines, and recontributing to Russia’s $28 billion economic shortfall.

Russian drone attacks described as a “human safari” continue, particularly in southern Ukraine.

Dutch Intelligence revealed that Russia is producing excessive artillery and deploying forces near NATO borders.

6. Impact On the Trade and Travel

UK sanctions 100 Russian oil tankers, targeting a $24 billion shadow fleet involved in oil smuggling

Flights to Ukraine could resume soon as part of an international effort to stabilize the country's economy.

Saudi Arabia’s oil policies continue to undercut Russian revenue, adding to Moscow’s financial crisis

7. International Response

European leaders in Kyiv pushed for a united front and introduced a “coal of the willing” to secure Ukraine’s future.

NATO deploys Kraken3 AI war boats, following Ukraine’s success at sea with kamikaze drones.

39nations gathered in Lviv to sign a modern-day Nuremberg-style tribunal agreement, seeking accountability for Russian war crimes.

Germany begins spy satellite production to aid Ukraine’s surveillance independently of US intel

8. Comment

Despite global momentum toward peace and mounting diplomatic pressure, the conflict remains deadlocked due to Russia’s strategic defiance and continued military aggression. While Ukraine holds the moral high ground, its battlefield resilience is increasingly being tested international unity is firming, but concrete results depend on sustained economic, military, and legal pressure on Moscow.

9. Latest News in Two Lines

Putin rejects Europe ceasefire proposal, but signals readiness for direct talks in Istanbul on 15 May 2025.

Ukrainian drones halt Russian advances near Das attacks escalate despite a declared ceasefire.