As the Russia-Ukraine war enters its 1,160th day, drone warfare, ceasefire proposals, and revelations of war crimes continue to dominate the global narrative. Ukraine faces another brutal wave of drone strikes, while President Zelensky’s administration increases pressure on Western allies to maintain aviation sanctions against Moscow—now considered one of the most effective tools against Vladimir Putin’s regime.
🚨 Kharkiv and Dnipro Under Heavy Drone Attack
Late Tuesday, at least 45 civilians were injured in Kharkiv during a massive Russian drone attack. Among the victims were a pregnant woman and two children. Meanwhile, Dnipro city also came under assault, leaving at least one person dead. Ukrainian air defences intercepted part of the swarms, but the strikes caused widespread destruction and fear.
💣 Zelensky Demands Unconditional Ceasefire
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reiterated his call for a “full and unconditional ceasefire for at least 30 days,” arguing that this must be the starting point for any serious diplomatic engagement. This came in response to Russia’s proposal for a temporary three-day ceasefire from May 8 to 10, coinciding with WWII Victory Day celebrations—a move widely criticised as a tactical ploy by the Kremlin.
🛑 Aviation Sanctions: Putin’s Most Hated Pressure Point
Andriy Yermak, Zelensky’s chief of staff, highlighted the effectiveness of sanctions targeting Russia’s civil aviation and restricted airspace. Writing in the Guardian, Yermak stated these sanctions are “central” to Moscow’s negotiation demands, showing their strategic importance. Russia has been lobbying for their removal before agreeing to any broader ceasefire.
🧠 Tortured Journalist Returned Without Organs
The tragic case of Ukrainian journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna has shocked international observers. Her body, returned by Russia, showed signs of torture, mutilation, and missing organs. Investigators confirmed removal of her brain, eyes, and parts of the trachea, sparking accusations that Russia deliberately concealed evidence of suffocation or strangulation. Over 40 journalists contributed to the investigation led by Forbidden Stories.
🛰️ Russia Claims Drone Interceptions Over Kursk
Russia’s Ministry of Defence reported the destruction of 34 Ukrainian drones overnight, with 15 intercepted over the Kursk region. The region has been increasingly targeted in Ukrainian cross-border operations, although analysts warn Ukraine risks losing critical ground inside its borders while engaging in these incursions.
🕊️ Trump, Macron, and Global Ceasefire Diplomacy
U.S. President Donald Trump stated he believes Putin “wants peace,” even as missile attacks continue. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that unless progress is made, the U.S. might step back from further mediation. French President Emmanuel Macron urged tougher action on Moscow, stating that the next 15 days are “crucial” to securing a ceasefire.
🗺️ Crimea: The Heart of the Conflict
The strategic and symbolic value of Crimea remains central. Experts note that control over Sevastopol’s warm-water port grants dominance over the Black Sea. Trump controversially echoed Putin’s logic by asserting Crimea was “taken without a fight” in 2014 and should remain under Russian control—ignoring Ukraine’s sovereign claims and historical context.
More than 40 journalists from 13 international media outlets participated in the investigation, conducting more than 50 interviews with former prisoners, ex-prison guards, and human rights activists.
Her remains, tagged with number 757, were handed over by Russia in late February with Russian documents falsely labelling her as an “unidentified male”.
However, a forensic examination showed the body was female. DNA testing on the remains finally identified them as Roshchyna’s with 99 per cent certainty.
The organs may have been deliberately removed from Roshchyna’s body to hide signs of suffocation or strangulation, according to an international forensic pathologist.
🔚 Conclusion
The war shows no sign of abating. While Russia plays the ceasefire card tactically, Ukraine and its allies seek longer-term solutions that ensure justice and territorial integrity. The coming weeks may shape the trajectory of this devastating conflict, especially as pressure mounts over sanctions, diplomacy, and accountability for war crimes.
Also Read: Russia-Ukraine War Day 1,159: Rising Drone Warfare and Diplomatic Stalemates
