Ukraine Invasion: Part 56

[MagicFox]

The (free) world has gone mad. Slava Ukraini 🇺🇦

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In a sign of just how desperate for manpower the Russians are, the largely ceremonial unit that guards the Kremlin is being deployed to Ukraine.

Russia brings in 'top-level' FSB Presidential Regiment to Chasiv Yar, Ukraine's army says

This unit is a bit like the British Yeomen Warders (aka the Beefeaters), except the Yeomen Warders have higher standards. The FSB regiment are more like riot control police, and they're going to be at a big disadvantage fighting against the Ukrainians given their lack of combat experience.

What surprises me about this is that these are the troops Putin and company rely on for their personal protection. They're going to suffer huge losses in Ukraine, and they know it. They're going to see it as being thrown under the bus by Putin.

Hmm. Interesting.

Is there any chance, do you think, that this de facto personal bodyguard will be so dis-chuffed at being sent into the mincer that they will turn on Putin?

I think that by the time this was made public, they were already on their way to Ukraine. But it will have an effect on those who remain, who will think that they're next into the meat grinder.

Trump has said he'll go to Turkey to meet with Zelenskyy- and Putin!
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2025/may/12/russia-ukraine-war-zelenskyy-putin-trump-europe-live-latest-news?CMP=share_btn_url&page=with%3Ablock-682208398f0894079b084128#block-682208398f0894079b084128

Oh God, can you imagine? He will make it into a pay per view circus.

Oh dear god. Is he planning to take Vance and Rubio too? So they can re-run their circus show in the Oval Office?

But is he not also calling Putin out for his refusal to meet?

Perhaps someone could tell him there's bigly rally for him in Arizona with lots of cameras and cheering people, and he'll miss it if he flies to Turkey.

Zelensky is tag-teaming with Trump to pressure Pu (whether Trump intends or even realizes it doesn’t matter).

In this second round of negotiations since February, Ukraine has seized the initiative and Pu is getting slowly outmanoeuvred. Europe has to keep the momentum going too.

https://bsky.app/profile/popovaprof.bsky.social/post/3loypsz2ukc2d

Yes, if Trump turned up and Pu didn't... that would piss Trump off: which could lead somewhere good (better than now, at any rate).

If both turned up, and Trump was secluded from Vance et al, that could work.

If Trump turned up with his circus, and they all ganged up on Zelensky with Pu, that would be bad.

I’m sorry I can’t recall now if Turkey was one of the countries that agreed to arrest Putin as a war criminal? Can he actually go there?

Regardless I will be very surprised if he actually turned up.

I’m fairly certain Turkey isn’t a signatory to the Rome Statue.

Trump should keep his nib out of it let Zelensky and Putin thrash out a deal.
Without that shyster crook trying to see what else he can score for himself and his rich buddies.

https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-may-12-2025

Key Takeaways:

• Russian officials appear to be setting conditions for Russian President Vladimir Putin to reject Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's invitation to meet on May 15 in Istanbul for bilateral ceasefire negotiations.
• Russia has reportedly deployed a largely ceremonial regiment of the Federal Security Service (FSB) to the frontline in Donetsk Oblast, likely in an effort to generate fear of more rapid future Russian advances.
• Ukrainian forces recently advanced in the Toretsk direction. Russian forces recently advanced in the Toretsk, Pokrovsk, and Novopavlivka directions.

My phone has just broken so Ive got to get that sorted immediately - roundup'll be late

Oh, got the sim card out at least - have to go get a new phone later grr. Funny how 20 years ago they were take - it - or - leave - it and now you have the jitters if it's out of action.

Kyiv Independent Telegram Highlights

⚡️ 'Clock is ticking' — Germany (kyivindependent.com/germany-gives-russia-until-midnight-to-implement-ceasefire-threatens-sanctions/) gives Russia until midnight to implement ceasefire, threatens sanctions.

⚡️ Russia ignores (kyivindependent.com/russia-ignores-ceasefire-proposal-from-may-12-ukraine-tells-western-allies-at-meeting-in-london/) May 12 ceasefire proposal, Ukraine tells allies at London meeting.

⚡️ Trump 'issued an ultimatum' to Ukraine, Russia to advance peace talks or face US exit, Witkoff says. (https://kyivindependent.com/trump-issued-an-ultimatum-to-ukraine-russia-to-advance-peace-talks-or-face-us-exit-witkoff-says/)

⚡️ Russia brings in 'top-level (kyivindependent.com/russia-brings-in-top-level-fsb-presidential-regiment-to-chasiv-yar-ukraines-army-says/)' FSB Presidential Regiment to Chasiv Yar, Ukraine's army says.
"If the Russians are using this level of specialists, they are probably facing difficulties," a spokesperson for the 24th Separate Mechanized Brigade, said.

⚡️Russian, Turkish Foreign Ministers hold phone call as Moscow again rejects (kyivindependent.com/russian-turkish-foreign-ministers-hold-phone-call-as-moscow-again-rejects-30-day-ceasefire/) 30-day ceasefire.

⚡️ Zelensky won't meet another Russian official apart from Putin in Turkey, advisor says. (kyivindependent.com/zelensky-wont-meet-another-russian-official-apart-from-putin-in-turkey-advisor-says/)
President Volodymyr Zelensky would not meet any other Russian official apart from Russian President Vladimir Putin in Istanbul this week, presidential advisor Mykhailo Podolyak said, explaining that talks with lower-level representatives would be pointless.
"That is, only Putin can make a decision to continue the war or stop the war," Podolyak added.

⚡️ EU to send extra (kyivindependent.com/eu-to-send-extra-1-billion-from-frozen-russian-asset-profits-for-ukraines-defense/) $1 billion from frozen Russian asset profits for Ukraine's defense
The new tranche brings total recent EU defense support for Ukraine to 3.3 billion euros ($3.6 billion), marking a significant expansion of European efforts to boost Kyiv's defense industry.

⚡️International Civil Aviation Organization rules Russia responsible for downing (kyivindependent.com/international-civil-aviation-organization-rules-russia-responsible-for-downing-flight-mh17/) MH17.
The Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) concluded on May 12 that Russia was responsible for downing flight MH17 in July 2014.
Flight MH17 departed from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport en-route to Kuala Lumpur International Airport on July 17, 2014. Three hours into the flight, the Boeing-777 was shot down by Russian proxy forces using a Buk surface-to-air missile above Ukraine’s Donetsk Oblast.

️ Ukraine finalizes (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-finalizes-ratification-of-us-minerals-deal-paving-way-for-joint-investment-fund/) ratification of US minerals deal, paving way for joint investment fund
President Volodymyr Zelensky signed the deal on May 12.

⚡️Some ReArm Europe (kyivindependent.com/some-rearm-europe-funds-to-be-funneled-to-ukraines-defense-eu-official-says/) funds to be funneled to Ukraine's defense, EU official says.
"Only member states can take out loans within the 150 billion euros instrument, but they can use these funds for joint procurement with Ukraine," EU Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius said.

⚡️Taiwan pledges (kyivindependent.com/taiwan-pledges-2-million-for-demining-in-ukraine/) $2 million for demining in Ukraine.

⚡️ Polish protesters to resume blockade at Ukraine's border, Ukrainian Border Guard (kyivindependent.com/polish-protesters-to-resume-blockade-at-ukraines-border/) warns.
Polish truckers plan to restrict freight traffic at the Yahodyn-Dorohusk checkpoint on the Ukrainian border, Ukraine's State Border Guard said on May 12.

⚡️ Russia faces record (kyivindependent.com/russia-faces-record-2-6-million-worker-shortage-amid-war-recruitment/) 2.6 million worker shortage amid war recruitment.

⚡️ Syrian leader reportedly (https://kyivindependent.com/syrian-leader-reportedly-proposes-ukraine-style-minerals-deal-to-trump-to-ease-sanctions/) proposes Ukraine-style minerals deal to Trump to ease sanctions.

President Volodymyr Zelensky on May 12 removed Lieutenant General Ivan Havryliuk from the Headquarters of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, the top command and control body for all branches of Ukraine's defense apparatus.

⚡️ Poland charges (kyivindependent.com/poland-accuses-ukrainians-of-involvement-in-russian-ordered-arson-attacks-across-eu/) 2 Ukrainians with involvement in suspected Russian-ordered arson attacks in EU.

⚡️ Russia decreased but didn't cease (kyivindependent.com/russia-slightly-reduced-didnt-stop-attacks-during-victory-day-ceasefire/) attacks during Victory Day truce, Ukraine's Border Guard says.

⚡️ Russia's Belgorod governor accuses locals (kyivindependent.com/russias-belgorod-governor-accuses-locals-of-faking-drone-damage-for-compensation/) of faking war damage to receive compensation from the state.
"I myself have heard relatives talking: our village is being attacked, let's roll the car out of the garage, maybe they will shell it — at least we will get money. The car is old, we can't sell it," Belgorod Oblast Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said.

⚡️ 6 Bulgarian nationals sentenced (kyivindependent.com/6-bulgarian-nationals-sentenced-in-uk-for-spying-for-russia/) in the UK for spying for Russia.

⚡️Russian attacks across Ukraine kill (kyivindependent.com/russian-attacks-across-ukraine-kill-2-injure-7-over-past-day-2/) 2, injure 7 over past day.

UNITED24 Media Telegram Highlights

Trump Issues Ultimatum: Ukraine and Russia Must Reach Peace Deal or U.S. Will Withdraw from Process, — Witkoff
U.S. President Donald Trump has issued an ultimatum to Ukraine and the Russian Federation, demanding swift direct negotiations and a lasting peace agreement. If no progress is made, the United States will withdraw from the peace process, said Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff in an interview with Breitbart News.
▫️ “I hope and believe a peace summit will soon take place, where President Zelenskyy and President Putin will meet in person to agree on ending the war in Ukraine,” Witkoff stated.
▫️ He noted that key issues for discussion include Ukrainian territories, control over the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), and Ukraine’s access to strategic waterways.
▫️ The central point of contention remains control over five regions: Russian-occupied Crimea and the partially occupied Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia regions.
▫️ “The question is whether Russia will pull back to certain administrative lines. The same applies to Ukraine,” Witkoff explained.
▫️ “There will be no peace agreement without Putin’s consent. That’s why we must engage with all parties. I believe we have a real chance to end this conflict,” he added.

Peskov: Russia Rejects Ultimatum-Like Language, Reaffirms Readiness for Negotiations
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that the language of ultimatums is unacceptable to the Russian Federation. “It is impossible to speak to us in such terms,” he said, referring to Western rhetoric.
Additional statements by Peskov:
• Putin has clearly and unequivocally outlined Russia’s position on resuming negotiations with Ukraine without preconditions.
• The Russian Federation is committed to seriously pursuing a long-term settlement in Ukraine.
• Putin’s stance on negotiations has been met with understanding and support from the leaders of many countries.
• Poland continues to adopt a hostile and unfriendly position toward Russia. Numerous accusations are made against Moscow in that country, reflecting what Peskov described as a “Russophobic” attitude.

Ukraine and EU Sign Memorandum on Defense Industry Cooperation
Ukraine and the European Union have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen cooperation in the defense industry.
The memorandum aims to advance the shared interests of Ukrainian defense companies and members of the AeroSpace and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD). Both sides agreed to promote partnerships between Ukrainian firms and ASD members and to support the participation of Ukrainian companies in industrial consortia under key EU programs, including the European Defence Fund and Horizon Europe.

EU to Ban 25 Russian Oil Tankers in New Sanctions Targeting Shadow Fleet
The European Union is preparing to ban 25 oil tankers carrying Russian crude from entering its ports, according to a report by EUobserver citing a proposal from the European Commission. These vessels, currently operating in the Baltic and North Seas, are part of the so-called “shadow fleet” used by Russia to circumvent Western oil sanctions.
In total, 149 such vessels are expected to be added to the EU’s blacklist. Once the decision is officially adopted on May 20, the sanctioned tankers will be barred from entering EU ports and denied access to services provided by European shipping companies, including insurance, repairs, and refueling.
These tankers, typically around 240 meters in length, are reported to be in poor technical condition, registered under flags of convenience in countries with low safety standards, and often lack proper insurance. The Baltic Sea, due to its shallow waters and enclosed geography, is particularly vulnerable to environmental disasters.

The new German government has decided to stop publicly discussing the possible delivery of Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine, Euractiv reports.
Officials believe the effectiveness of these missiles is “overestimated,” according to the publication.

Ukrainian National Guard Receives Modernized Grad MLRS on MAN 6x6 Platform
The National Guard of Ukraine has been equipped with a modernized version of the Grad multiple launch rocket system (MLRS), mounted on a MAN 6x6 chassis.
A key upgrade is the integration of advanced fire control and targeting systems. The vehicle now features electric vertical and horizontal guidance drives with remote operation capabilities. The modernization also enables the transport of additional ammunition.

Kyiv Post Telegram Highlights

A barely recognizable Surovikin, (www.kyivpost.com/post/52476) sacked as Head of Russia’s air forces because of his links to the Wagner Group has reappeared in Algeria as part of Russia’s Victory Day celebrations.

Former US Envoy to Ukraine tells Kyiv Post (www.kyivpost.com/post/52514) Russia’s oil and banking sectors are vulnerable targets as the US aims to end the war by demanding a 30-day ceasefire, and punishing Moscow if it resists.

In an exclusive report, Kyiv Post visited Ukrainian troops near Pokrovsk, (www.kyivpost.com/post/52508) who laughed at the idea anyone believed Putin’s Victory Day ‘ceasefire’ promise – the fighting never stopped, and medics never got a break.

With her unit surrounded and no one in command Svitlana, (www.kyivpost.com/post/52529) a Ukrainian combat medic, heroically took over, seized a grenade launcher, and used it to wipe out the group of Russian attackers threatening her unit.

Live: Ukraine Telegram Highlights

🇵🇱🚚 Polish hauliers block Yahodyn–Dorohusk border crossing
Protesters are allowing only one truck per hour to enter or exit. Buses, humanitarian aid, and fuel tankers headed to Ukraine are passing without delays.
The organizers aim to draw the government’s attention to the state of the transport industry in Poland and demand the reinstatement of permits for Ukrainian carriers entering Poland.
The protest is expected to last up to four months.

🇺🇸🇪🇺 Trump derails European plan by backing direct talks with Russia — The Guardian
According to The Guardian, European leaders — UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz — had intended to pressure the U.S. into imposing tough sanctions on Moscow for refusing the proposed 30-day ceasefire.
Their goal was to convince Trump that Putin was stalling for time and that the U.S. had no political alternative but to escalate economic pressure.
However, Trump backed the idea of direct Ukraine–Russia negotiations in Turkey, undermining the coordinated European strategy.
Sources told The Guardian that President Zelensky had little choice but to accept Putin’s invitation for talks in Istanbul — fearing he might alienate Trump. Meanwhile, Putin’s offer was reportedly aimed at avoiding U.S. backlash and blocking further European pressure.

The UK Special Forces in Afghanistan were 'psychotic'. Killing sprees.

www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj3j5gxgz0do

That has been horrific to read, @DucklingSwimmingInstructress .

It's been rumoured for a long time, but utterly shocking to see confirmed. And shameful. Deeply shameful.

There will be such a long fall-out from this.

🇺🇸🇪🇺 Trump derails European plan by backing direct talks with Russia — The Guardian
According to The Guardian, European leaders — UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz — had intended to pressure the U.S. into imposing tough sanctions on Moscow for refusing the proposed 30-day ceasefire.
Their goal was to convince Trump that Putin was stalling for time and that the U.S. had no political alternative but to escalate economic pressure.
However, Trump backed the idea of direct Ukraine–Russia negotiations in Turkey, undermining the coordinated European strategy.
Sources told The Guardian that President Zelensky had little choice but to accept Putin’s invitation for talks in Istanbul — fearing he might alienate Trump. Meanwhile, Putin’s offer was reportedly aimed at avoiding U.S. backlash and blocking further European pressure.

Yeah, it's all game-playing. The effort that is being diverted into trying to woo Trump...

That Guardian article brings to light how the carefully planned European leaders plan made Witt Zelenskyy was totally sidelined by Trump. By agreeing to pressure Zelenskyy to agree to the meeting in Turkey, Putin succeeded in sidelining and excluding Europe.

Let’s hope Zelenskyy can use this somehow to his advantage if Trump joins the meeting in Turkey and puts the pressure on Putin again.

I have a bad feeling that Zelenskyy will be pressured to surrender.

Putin is not going to show up

The Kremlin: “We will announce who will represent Russia at talks in Turkey when Putin sees fit."