April
01.04.2025
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Tuesday
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Day Without Shaheds as Trump's Patience Thins

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For the first time in 2025, Ukraine experienced a night without Russian Shahed drone attacks, though air defenses still intercepted two missiles over Zaporizhzhia. Trump's diplomatic maneuvers dominated coverage, with reports of his growing impatience toward both Putin and Zelensky. He rejected Putin's "UN temporary administration" proposal while simultaneously pressuring Zelensky on a minerals agreement.

By midday, polling showed Trump's approval among Ukrainians plummeting to 73% negative from 21% in December. Ukraine formally began negotiations with the US on a revised minerals agreement, with Ukrainian officials emphasizing it must align with EU integration goals. Deputy Foreign Minister Sibiga firmly stated Ukraine would never recognize occupied territories or accept military limitations.

The afternoon brought news of Poland deporting a Medvedchuk-linked propagandist to Ukraine for a potential prisoner exchange. Military intelligence reported successful drone strikes against Russian naval assets in Crimea, including two landing craft and an air defense system.
02.04.2025
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Wednesday
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Day of Kryvyi Rih Missiles and Russian Offensive Predictions

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Russian drone attacks on Kharkiv dominated early coverage, with casualties rising to nine, including three children. By midday, expectations of a major Russian offensive gained prominence, with ISW reporting a tenfold Russian troop advantage in one sector. Trump's frustration with Putin over stalled peace talks emerged, with the White House considering tougher sanctions on Russian oil tankers.

The afternoon brought devastating news as a Russian ballistic missile struck an enterprise in Kryvyi Rih, killing four people and wounding 14, including two children. Zelensky called the attack "deliberate terror." Meanwhile, a Russian Tu-22M3 bomber used to launch X-22 missiles against Ukraine crashed in Irkutsk region.

Evening reports featured Trump advisor Keith Kellogg claiming a ceasefire might be close, even as Russia conducted a third drone attack on Kharkiv. The news that Trump announced new tariffs affecting Ukraine but not Russia raised concerns.
03.04.2025
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Thursday
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Day Trump's Tariffs Spared Russia But Hit Ukraine

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Trump's sweeping global tariffs dominated coverage, with Ukrainian media highlighting the 10% tariff on Ukrainian goods while Russia was notably exempted. Government officials characterized the situation as "difficult but not critical" as a Ukrainian delegation prepared to visit the US.

By midday, Zelensky struck an optimistic tone about possible ceasefire, suggesting Russia could be forced to stop fire "within weeks or months." Meanwhile, US Defense Secretary Hegseth's unprecedented boycott of the Ukraine Support Summit signaled further American disengagement.

The evening brought devastating Russian drone attacks on Kharkiv, with casualties rising from 12 injured to three dead and 32 wounded throughout the reporting cycle. Kyiv also faced explosions at two locations, including one at the Yunist market that killed two people. Military updates indicated Russia planned to increase its forces by 150,000 troops as Zelensky visited the Sumy front, describing it as a critical area.
04.04.2025
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Friday
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Day of Kryvyi Rih Ballistic Massacre

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The morning began with reports of a drone attack on Kharkiv that killed five people. By midday, intelligence analysis showed Putin positioned for new conquests rather than negotiated settlement, while the "Coalition of the Determined" demanded clear answers from Russia regarding ceasefire proposals. France and Britain expressed readiness to lead this coalition.

Ukrainian forces successfully repelled a Russian assault in Donetsk, destroying 19 vehicles with drones and artillery. Meanwhile, Trump's administration canceled sanctions on a Russian oligarch's wife while maintaining tariffs on Ukraine that were imposed the previous day.

The evening brought devastation as a Russian ballistic missile struck Kryvyi Rih, Zelensky's hometown. The death toll climbed steadily from 12 to 18 throughout the evening, including 6-9 children, with over 50 wounded. Russia launched a second strike later in the evening. Zelensky confirmed discussions about potential international military contingents for land, air, sea, and air defense operations.
05.04.2025
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Saturday
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Day of Kryvyi Rih Mourning and Western Contingency Plans

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The death toll from yesterday's Russian ballistic missile strike on Kryvyi Rih rose throughout the day, reaching 19 killed (including nine children) and 74 injured. Zelensky personally named the children killed while criticizing the US ambassador's "weak reaction" for avoiding the word "Russian" when describing the attack. Kryvyi Rih declared three days of mourning, while a national day of mourning was set for April 6.

Significant progress emerged regarding Western security contingent placement in Ukraine post-hostilities, with Zelensky announcing "tangible progress" and "Coalition of the Willing" nations planning weekly meetings to discuss troop deployments. The SBU meanwhile launched polygraph investigations into the leak of a US-Ukraine natural resources agreement that Politico described as "catastrophic" for Ukraine.

By evening, Ukrainian media reported anti-Trump protests sweeping across America, while Budanov warned Russia would maintain its large military even after the war.
06.04.2025
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Sunday
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Day of Kyiv Media Attack and Air Defense Push

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Russia launched a massive overnight attack on Ukraine with 23 missiles and over 100 drones, continuing the escalation pattern seen after the deadly Kryvyi Rih strike. Air defenses intercepted 13 missiles and 40 drones, but Kyiv suffered strikes across three districts, with state TV channels Freedom, Dim, and UATV offices specifically targeted. One civilian died and three were injured in the capital.

By midday, Zelensky had directed intensified contact with partners on air defense systems, even proposing manufacturing in Ukraine, as military officials reported Russia had modified its missiles to make them harder to intercept. The Kryvyi Rih death toll rose to 20, confirming it as the deadliest attack for children since February 2022.

New air alerts sounded in the evening while international reactions formed: Macron condemned the strikes, and a pro-Ukraine rally was held in Washington. Meanwhile, Trump officials explained Russia's exemption from new tariffs as related to ongoing war-ending negotiations.
07.04.2025
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Monday
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Day Trump Condemns Bombings as Ukraine Confirms Presence in Russia

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The aftermath of the Kryvyi Rih attack continued with 53 people hospitalized, 20 in serious condition. France24 released video proving Russia's claim of military presence at the restaurant was false. Trump repeatedly condemned the bombings, saying Russia was "bombing like crazy" and calling it "horrible," while claiming to be in talks with Russia.

Military analyses showed Russian advance rates decreased 3-5 times since autumn due to successful Ukrainian counterattacks, with Russia losing approximately 146 soldiers per square kilometer on the eastern front.

The Ministry of Defense prepared a demobilization law that would release 100,000 soldiers after 36 months of service, but the General Staff opposed it. Ukrainian refugees in the EU face uncertain status if a ceasefire occurs.

By evening, Zelensky confirmed Ukrainian forces' presence in Russia's Belgorod and Kursk regions following Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi's briefing. Ukraine also announced developing 20 new fiber optic drone models in 2025.
08.04.2025
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Tuesday
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Day Chinese POWs Exposed Russia's Global Recruitment

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President Zelensky confirmed Ukrainian troops operating in Russia's Belgorod region, following yesterday's acknowledgment of cross-border operations. Former Commander-in-Chief Zaluzhnyi revealed details about a joint Ukraine-US command center in Wiesbaden that served as Ukraine's "secret weapon" for planning operations.

The most significant development came midday when Zelensky announced the capture of Chinese nationals fighting for Russia in Donetsk region, sharing video evidence that prompted Ukraine's Foreign Ministry to summon China's chargé d'affaires. The Ukrainian brigade later released capture details.

Meanwhile, the Pentagon announced plans to withdraw up to 10,000 US troops from Eastern Europe and remove forces from a key logistics hub in Poland supporting Ukraine. Goldman Sachs estimated a 70% probability of a Ukrainian peace agreement.

By evening, Russia intensified attacks on Ukrainian cities, with multiple drone strikes on Kharkiv, Dnipro, and Kramatorsk causing fires and civilian casualties. The frontline saw 135 combat engagements and 69 Russian air strikes.
09.04.2025
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Wednesday
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Day of Drone Wars and Chinese POWs

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Russia launched massive drone strikes against Ukrainian cities overnight, hitting Kharkiv with over 20 explosions and causing 15 injuries in Dnipro. Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi announced Russia has effectively begun offensives in Sumy and Kharkiv regions, though the General Staff later clarified no fundamental changes occurred at the front.

Ukraine countered with its own large-scale drone campaign, striking military targets across 13 Russian regions. Syrskyi confirmed a Ukrainian drone destroyed a $100 million Russian Tu-22M3 strategic bomber and revealed Russia's mobilization capacity of 5 million prepared personnel with 20 million overall.

The captured Chinese nationals story escalated as Zelensky released interrogation footage, identifying 155 Chinese citizens fighting for Russia. One prisoner admitted paying 300,000 to join Russia's forces. The international tariff war intensified as Trump's policies took effect, with China retaliating by raising duties on US goods to 84%.
10.04.2025
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Thursday
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Day of Russian Drone Assault on Diaper Warehouse

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Russia launched extensive drone attacks overnight, with 30 drones targeting Kyiv and causing fires, property destruction, and injuries. Air defense forces shot down 85 enemy drones across Ukraine, while 49 more were "locationally lost." In Mykolaiv, drone strikes injured 10 people.

By afternoon, Russia struck Dnipro with a ballistic missile, specifically targeting a Biosfera company warehouse storing diapers and hygiene products. The attack caused a massive fire, killed one person, and wounded several others. The Interior Ministry warned that Russian drones can now scatter explosive objects.

In international developments, China reacted sharply to Zelensky's claims about 155 Chinese citizens fighting for Russia, while the EU followed Trump in taking a 90-day pause on imposing tariffs. By evening, US Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink announced her resignation, and Zelensky revealed plans for sanctions against Russia's "shadow tanker fleet."
11.04.2025
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Friday
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Day Trump Envoy Proposed Ukraine Partition

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US Ambassador Bridget Brink resigned over disagreements with Trump's Ukraine policy as Russian forces continued advancing in Donetsk region, capturing Oleksandropil. The Ramstein meeting yielded a record €21 billion military aid package, with Germany announcing 100,000 artillery shells and 4 IRIS-T systems. Zelensky declared Ukraine's readiness to purchase additional air defense systems from the US.

Trump's peace ultimatum emerged, with sources claiming he may impose sanctions on Russia if no ceasefire is reached by late April. By evening, Reuters reported Trump's envoy Vitkoff proposed allowing Russia to annex four Ukrainian regions. This was followed by Keith Kellogg suggesting Ukraine could be divided "like post-WWII Berlin."

Other developments included China raising tariffs on US goods to 125%, Estonia detaining a Russian "shadow fleet" tanker with a Chinese captain, and Ukrainian F-16s reportedly conducting daily offensive and defensive operations with 80% mission success.
12.04.2025
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Saturday
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Day of the Fallen F-16 Pilot

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Russian drone attacks on Kyiv intensified overnight, causing fires and injuring several civilians in Sviatoshynskyi district. By morning, reports confirmed 88 drones had targeted various Ukrainian regions.

The most significant development came midday with news that 26-year-old F-16 pilot Pavlo Ivanov was killed during a combat mission. President Zelensky posthumously awarded him the title Hero of Ukraine. By evening, BBC reported the F-16 was shot down by a Russian missile, marking the first confirmed loss of Western-supplied fighter jets.

NATO Secretary General warned Russia may place nuclear weapons in space, escalating concerns about Russian military capabilities. Despite geopolitical tensions, President Trump extended Russia sanctions for another year.

Norway announced €830 million for equipping and training a Ukrainian brigade, while military reports indicated 95 combat clashes along the frontline, with the Kursk direction being the most intense.
13.04.2025
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Sunday
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Day of Palm Sunday Massacre in Sumy

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Russian ballistic missiles with cluster munitions struck Sumy city center on Palm Sunday, killing 34 people, including two children, and wounding 117. The attack hit a university building and exploded above a street, catching civilians returning from church services. Throughout the day, the death toll steadily rose from initial reports of "many dead" to precise counts of casualties.

Trump's comments about Ukraine-Russia negotiations needing to "either accept or shut up" framed the diplomatic context. His special envoy Kellogg condemned the Sumy attack as crossing "all boundaries of decency," while the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry denied reports of upcoming Ukraine-Russia talks in Turkey.

Amid the Sumy tragedy, Ukraine publicly revealed its new "Tryzub" laser weapon system, suggesting technological advancement in defensive capabilities. This development follows yesterday's confirmed loss of Ukraine's first Western-supplied F-16 fighter jet, piloted by Pavlo Ivanov.
14.04.2025
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Monday
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Day Chinese POWs Exposed Russian Deception as Trump Shifted Blame

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The Sumy ballistic missile attack aftermath continued with casualty numbers rising to 34 dead, including 2 children, and 119 wounded. Trump called the attack "terrible" but suggested it was a Russian "mistake," later shifting to blame Zelensky and Biden for starting the war while stating "this is not my war."

Zelensky invited Trump to visit any attacked Ukrainian city before negotiating with Russia, and announced Ukraine's willingness to purchase 10 Patriot systems for $15 billion. Reports emerged that German leadership would send Taurus missiles to Ukraine in coordination with European partners.

Chinese prisoners of war captured in Ukraine gave a press conference, revealing they were deceived by Russian recruiters who promised them well-paid work. Their testimony follows earlier reports from April 8-9 exposing Russia's global recruitment efforts, and provides firsthand evidence of foreign fighters in Putin's forces.
15.04.2025
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Tuesday
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Day of Revenge for Palm Sunday Massacre

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Ukrainian forces struck the Russian 448th missile brigade in Kursk region, identified as responsible for the April 13 Palm Sunday attack on Sumy that killed 35 people. This military response dominated coverage throughout the day.

President Zelensky dismissed Sumy Regional Administration head Artyukh following the attack. The Cabinet approved the dismissal after allegations emerged that Artyukh had organized a military awards ceremony in the city center before the strike.

Diplomatic tensions escalated as the US reportedly blocked a G7 statement condemning Russia's Sumy attack. Trump's special envoy Vitkoff revealed his peace plan centered on "five territories," which Zelensky promptly rejected as crossing "red lines." The White House suggested Russia has economic incentives to end the war through potential partnership with the US.

Militarily, two new National Guard corps were established, led by commanders from Azov and Khartia units, described as preparation for offensive operations.
16.04.2025
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Wednesday
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Day of Parliament's War Vote Amid Dnipro Drone Strike

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Ukraine's parliament extended martial law with only one MP voting against it, as reported by multiple outlets throughout the morning. The White House reportedly blocked a G7 statement condemning Russia's Sumy attack to preserve negotiations with Moscow, continuing the pattern of US diplomatic caution observed after the Palm Sunday massacre.

Military developments took center stage with news of Ukraine's successful ground drone trials and development of the "Bars" rocket-drone with 800km range. Zelensky later announced over 40% of weapons used at the front are now domestically produced.

The US adjusted its estimate of total aid to Ukraine from $300 billion to $100 billion, as minerals agreement negotiations showed "substantial progress." NATO surveillance operations made a historic approach to Crimea with French and British aircraft.

Evening news was dominated by a Russian drone attack on Dnipro that killed two people and injured 16, including three children.
17.04.2025
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Thursday
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Day Dnipro Attack and Chinese Weapons Claim Overshadowed Paris Talks

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Russian forces conducted a massive drone attack on Dnipro overnight, killing three people including a child and wounding approximately 30 others. President Zelensky warned intelligence indicates Russia is planning additional strikes before and after Easter.

In a significant diplomatic development, Ukrainian officials including Yermak traveled to Paris for meetings with representatives of the "coalition of the willing" and Trump representatives Rubio and Witkoff. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces liberated around 16 square kilometers near Pokrovsk according to Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi.

Zelensky made the explosive claim that China is supplying artillery, gunpowder, and weapons manufacturing assistance to Russia, providing evidence for allegations that have circulated for months. Trump announced he expects Putin's response to ceasefire proposals by week's end, continuing the diplomatic trajectory established in previous days.

Ukraine and the US signed a memorandum of understanding regarding an economic partnership focused on rare earth minerals.
18.04.2025
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Friday
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Day Kremlin Ended Energy Truce As US Drafted Peace Terms

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Russia struck Kharkiv with cluster munitions from ballistic missiles, killing one and injuring over 100 civilians including children. The attack came hours after the Kremlin announced the end of its month-long "energy truce."

Bloomberg revealed US peace proposals that would freeze the conflict, allow Russia to maintain control of occupied territories, and ease sanctions in exchange for a lasting ceasefire. This comes as Senator Rubio warned that the US is "ready to move on" if peace talks don't progress within days, stating "it's not our war."

Trump claimed to see "enthusiasm" from both Russia and Ukraine for negotiations but refused to confirm continued military aid if talks fail. Meanwhile, Zelensky signed laws extending martial law and mobilization, and appealed to partners following the Kharkiv strike, calling those who conduct such attacks "outright scum."

Reports emerged of a prisoner exchange planned for Saturday involving nearly 500 POWs.
19.04.2025
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Saturday
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Day of Easter Ceasefire and Historic Prisoner Exchange

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Morning reports indicated the Trump administration may recognize Russian control over Crimea as part of peace negotiations with Ukraine, while not discussing new aid packages. By mid-day, media reported Ukraine is "90% on board" with a US peace plan, with potential talks in London next week.

The situation shifted dramatically when Putin announced an "Easter ceasefire" from April 19-21. Zelensky dismissed it as "another attempt to play with lives," particularly as air raid sirens and explosions were reported in Kyiv shortly after the announcement.

The day's most significant development came in the afternoon with the return of 277 Ukrainian defenders from Russian captivity in a major prisoner exchange. By evening, Zelensky stated Ukraine would agree to a ceasefire if "true silence really reigns" on the frontlines, but Commander-in-Chief Syrsky reported fighting continued in some areas despite the announced truce.
20.04.2025
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Sunday
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Day Putin's Easter Truce Shattered By 3,000 Violations

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Putin's Easter ceasefire announcement from April 19 quickly proved hollow as Ukrainian sources reported 387 Russian attacks before midnight. By morning, Zelensky revealed Russian forces continued operations with 26 assault attempts. At 10 AM, Russia intensified shelling and doubled FPV drone usage to over 400 deployments.

The situation deteriorated when Ukrainian forces fell into a Russian ambush near Toretsk, resulting in casualties. By evening, Zelensky reported nearly 3,000 ceasefire violations throughout the day. The Kremlin rejected extending the truce despite the White House supporting continuation.

In parallel, peace negotiations gained momentum with a US team heading to London next week. Trump boldly predicted a Ukraine-Russia agreement within days, claiming both countries would subsequently "do big business" with the US. Zelensky proposed a 30-day ban on long-range strikes as an alternative, but received no Russian response.
21.04.2025
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Monday
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Day Pope Francis Died as Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks Loomed

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Russia launched nearly 100 drones and missiles across Ukraine overnight, shattering the supposed Easter ceasefire announced by Putin just two days earlier. Ukrainian forces claimed to have intercepted 42 drones, with 47 more "locationally lost."

By morning, news of Pope Francis' death at 89 dominated headlines, with world leaders expressing condolences. Vatican officials later confirmed an acute stroke as the cause of death.

Meanwhile, pressure mounted on Ukraine to respond to Trump's peace plan, reportedly requiring Kyiv to renounce NATO membership and recognize Russia's annexation of Crimea. Zelensky announced a Wednesday meeting in London with US, UK and French representatives to discuss "peace proposals," while Trump promised to reveal terms of a potential agreement within three days.

Ukrainian forces reported striking a Russian drone launch base in Kursk region, eliminating about 20 operators, while noting Russian withdrawals from western Pokrovsk outskirts.
22.04.2025
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Tuesday
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Day Putin Extended Hand Amid Bombs on Cities

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Putin offered direct negotiations with Ukraine for the first time since the war began, even as Russian forces conducted massive drone attacks on Odesa, Kyiv region, Zaporizhzhia, and Kharkiv. The Zaporizhzhia strike killed one woman and injured 38 people, including children.

Details of Trump's peace plan emerged, with US reportedly proposing Ukraine cede 20% of territory and recognize Russian Crimea. Trump's envoy Witkoff confirmed plans to visit Moscow again, while Putin suggested freezing the current frontline as a ceasefire basis.

A major explosion rocked one of Russia's largest ammunition depots in Vladimir region, with videos showing massive fireballs rising from the facility.

Zelensky announced Ukraine's team for London peace talks would have a mandate to negotiate a ceasefire, while simultaneously providing China with evidence of Chinese citizens working at Russian drone factories.
23.04.2025
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Wednesday
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Day Trump's Ultimatum Shattered London Peace Talks

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The planned ministerial-level peace talks in London collapsed after Trump publicly berated Zelensky over Crimea, stating Ukraine "lost it years ago." US Senator Vance issued an ultimatum demanding territorial concessions from both sides or the US would "exit negotiations." Following this, Russia launched a deadly drone attack on a bus in Marhanets, killing 9 and injuring 42 civilians.

By afternoon, Ukrainian officials including Svyrydenko emphasized Ukraine's readiness for negotiations but rejection of "capitulation." Zelensky called for "immediate, complete and unconditional ceasefire" while France publicly insisted on Ukraine's territorial integrity in any agreement.

By evening, details emerged that Ukraine had prepared a document refusing to discuss territorial concessions before a complete ceasefire, directly contradicting Trump's approach. CNN reported the US aims to secure a peace deal within Trump's first 100 days in office.

The day ended with Russia launching a combined missile and drone attack on Kyiv, shattering the supposed Easter ceasefire.
24.04.2025
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Thursday
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Day Russian Missiles Took Civilian Lives After Failed Negotiations

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Russia launched its largest combined attack in months on Kyiv overnight, firing 215 missiles and drones across Ukraine. Death counts rose throughout the day, reaching 12 killed and 90 injured in Kyiv alone. Six districts were damaged, including a metro station.

Ukrainian F-16 and Mirage fighters participated in intercepting 112 targets. Zelensky ordered his defense minister to immediately request additional air defense systems from partners, while cutting short his South Africa visit.

Trump responded with an unusual direct appeal to Putin: "Vladimir, stop!" He later claimed Russia was ready to make concessions and set a deadline for peace talks. Bloomberg reported the US will demand Russia recognize Ukraine's right to its own military.

Zelensky suggested North Korean missiles may have been used in the attack, which appeared timed to disrupt the London peace talks that had collapsed the previous day after Trump's ultimatum demanding territorial concessions.
25.04.2025
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Friday
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Day Russia's General Died as Crimea Declared Lost

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Russia intensified attacks overnight, with a deadly strike on Pavlohrad killing three people including a child. Morning brought confirmation of high-ranking Russian General Staff officer Yaroslav Moskalyk's assassination near Moscow when his car was bombed.

Reuters published Trump's full peace proposal, revealing demands that Ukraine cede Crimea permanently. Trump explicitly stated "Crimea will stay with Russia" and claimed Zelensky understands this reality. He also demanded Ukraine immediately sign a rare earth metals agreement.

Zelensky acknowledged Ukraine lacks weapons to liberate Crimea by force but stated Ukraine won't legally recognize any occupied territories. He revealed details of Ukraine's counter-proposal to Trump's plan, which emphasizes the need for a complete ceasefire first.

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry denied receiving official signals about US withdrawal from negotiations despite Trump reportedly threatening to exit talks next week without an agreement.
26.04.2025
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Saturday
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Day Trump Shifted From Ultimatums To Doubting Putin

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The Trump-Zelensky unexpected meeting in Rome during Pope Francis's funeral marked a significant pivot in diplomatic dynamics. Following three days of increasing tensions after Trump's ultimatum on territorial concessions collapsed the London talks, their Vatican encounter was described by both sides as "constructive" and "productive."

Media reports in the morning revealed US willingness to provide security guarantees to a "coalition of the willing" supporting Ukraine, suggesting flexibility in American positions.

By afternoon, Trump's tone shifted dramatically. After meeting Zelensky, he publicly questioned whether Putin genuinely wants peace, threatening new sanctions against Russia. This contrasts sharply with his previous demands that Ukraine cede territories.

Zelensky described the meeting as potentially "historic" if concrete results emerge. Trump also promised Estonia's president not to abandon peace negotiations, while Zelensky consulted with European leaders about a new sanctions package against Russia.
27.04.2025
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Sunday
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Day Russia's Summer Tactics Revealed As Zelensky Maintains Cross-Border Operations

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Morning reports revealed Russia's new tactics for summer offensive operations as Moscow launched overnight attacks with nearly 150 drones against six Ukrainian regions, killing a civilian in Pavlohrad. Air defenses destroyed 57 drones, with 67 more lost to electronic warfare.

By midday, Zelensky confirmed Ukraine maintains "active defensive operations" in Russia's Kursk and Belgorod regions, contradicting speculation about withdrawal. Meanwhile, Russian forces captured four settlements in Sumy region and are attempting to advance toward Sumy city.

Senator Rubio declared this week "critical" for peace negotiations, suggesting the US must decide whether to continue involvement. Trump's team explained the absence of new Russia sanctions as avoiding escalation during talks. The Sunday Times characterized Trump's peace plan as "terrible" but suggested Ukraine should accept it nonetheless, as Zelensky warned current pressure on Russia remains insufficient.
28.04.2025
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Monday
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Day of Rejected Ceasefires and Su-27 Sacrifice

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Trump claimed Zelensky might surrender Crimea for peace while urging Putin to sign an agreement and stop fighting. In another loss for Ukrainian air defense, a Su-27 fighter was destroyed during combat operations against Russian drones, though the pilot ejected safely.

Putin unexpectedly announced a three-day ceasefire from May 8-10 for Victory Day celebrations, prompting immediate rejection from Ukrainian officials. Presidential adviser Sybiga asked "why wait until May 8?" while Zelensky stated "we value people, not parades." The White House likewise dismissed the temporary measure, emphasizing Trump's desire for permanent cessation of hostilities.

Russia's demands remained unchanged: Ukraine's non-NATO status, "demilitarization," and recognition of annexed territories. Meanwhile, Spain and Portugal experienced a massive electrical blackout across the Iberian Peninsula, with Ukraine offering assistance to help restore power.
29.04.2025
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Tuesday
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Day of Defective Mines and Diplomatic Chess

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Putin's three-day ceasefire proposal from yesterday was officially rejected by Ukraine, the US, and European leaders, with Zelensky calling it "a manipulation" and "farce." Trump's team countered with demands for a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire, threatening to withdraw from negotiations without progress.

Military updates showed Russian forces pushing toward the border of three Ukrainian regions as defense officials committed to sending administrative recruitment personnel to frontlines. North Korea's military role received unprecedented acknowledgment with Putin publicly thanking Kim Jong Un for support.

The SBU arrested defense plant management for supplying defective mines to the front, highlighting internal challenges in weapons production. As US Vice President Vance warned the conflict could trigger nuclear war, Ukraine reported losing nearly 50% of its gas production to Russian attacks.

The day ended with a massive Russian drone strike on Kharkiv, injuring at least 39 people across 16 separate attacks.
30.04.2025
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Wednesday
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Day Minerals Deal Signed As Russian Drones Circle Cities

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Russia launched over 100 drones at Ukrainian cities overnight, with Kharkiv suffering heavy damage and 45 casualties. Meanwhile, Trump's recent comments about Putin "respecting him" and not taking "all of Ukraine" drew media scrutiny as he marked 100 days in office. Ukrainian intelligence struck the Murom instrument-making plant in Russia, demonstrating offensive capabilities.

The long-anticipated US-Ukraine minerals agreement hit last-minute complications but was ultimately signed late evening despite ongoing Russian attacks. The deal establishes a 50/50 revenue split while preserving Ukraine's resource ownership and blocks countries that financed Russia's war from participating in reconstruction.

On the battlefield, Commander Syrsky reported Russians attempting to reach Dnipropetrovsk region's administrative borders despite Putin's ceasefire rhetoric. The Ukrainian defense ministry clarified which medical personnel would lose their exemption status as manpower needs intensify on the frontlines.
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