Ukraine Invasion: Part 61

[MagicFox]

Welcome to thread 61 with many thanks to all So many thanks to all contributors and a special salute to those providing daily updates. For the 61st time, Slava Ukraini 🇺🇦

**
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A. The agreed purpose of the thread is for the sharing of information and commentary on current events
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Thanks for this, MagicFox.

Слава Україні!

Thank you for the new thread. It's so sad that we are still needing them.

Thank you

🫡

Thanks @MagicFox

Thank you @MagicFox 🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦

https://understandingwar.org/research/russia-ukraine/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-april-28-2026/

Key Takeaways

1. Ukrainian forces struck the Tuapse Oil Refinery overnight on April 27 to 28, the third strike against the refinery in April so far.
2. The April 27 to 28 strikes compelled the Kremlin to acknowledge the impacts of the Ukrainian strikes against the Tuapse Oil Refinery.
3. Ukrainian forces recently advanced in the Kharkiv and Orikhiv directions.
4. Russian forces launched 123 drones toward Ukraine overnight.

Checking in

Kyiv Independent Telegram Highlights

⚡️Magyar [Hungarian PM] proposes (kyivindependent.com/magyar-wants-to-meet-zelensky-in-ukraine-discuss-hungarian-minority/) meeting Zelensky in Ukraine, seeks reset in ties.

Russia has a new missile (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-reveals-design-foreign-components-of-russias-new-s-71k-missile/) — here's what we know about the S-71K
Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR) has revealed details of a new Russian air-launched cruise missile, the S-71K "Kovyor," offering a closer look at its design and production.
On its War&Sanctions portal, the agency published a 3D model of the missile, along with a breakdown of its components. Two major takeaways are the missile's reliance on foreign-made electronics and its relatively simple construction.

⚡️US ambassador to Ukraine (kyivindependent.com/us-ukraine-ambassador-to-resign-amid-tensions-trump-ft-reports/) to step down, State Department says.
Julie Davis, who has served as chargé d'affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv for nearly a year, is expected to depart in June 2026, leaving a key diplomatic post vacant at a critical moment.
According to HUR, the missile was developed by Russia's United Aircraft Corporation and was first used against Ukraine towards the end of 2025.

⚡️Ukraine shuts down arms network that supplied weapons to Steven Seagal (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-shuts-down-arms-network-that-supplied-weapons-to-steven-seagal/), other pro-Russian figures.
Ukraine says it shut down an arms trafficking network that funneled weapons from occupied territories and Slovakia to pro-Russian figures, including Steven Seagal and Kim Jong-un, with some distributed as "prizes."

⚡️Russia preparing to recruit (kyivindependent.com/russia-preparing-to-recruit-thousands-of-foreign-fighters-in-2026-intelligence-reports-reveals/) thousands of foreign fighters in 2026 — new intelligence reveals scope.
According to Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR), Russia will focus its recruitment efforts on Central Asian countries, as well as developing countries in Asia and Africa.

⚡️ Zelensky slams Israel for (kyivindependent.com/zelensky-slams-israel-for-buying-stolen-ukrainian-grain-says-kyiv-prepares-sanctions/) buying stolen Ukrainian grain, says Kyiv prepares sanctions.
“Purchasing stolen goods in all normal countries is an act that entails legal liability,” President Volodymyr Zelensky said. “The Israeli authorities couldn’t have not known which ships and with what cargo arrived at the country’s ports.”

⚡️EU warns of sanctions over shipments of (kyivindependent.com/eu-threatens-sanctions-over-shipments-of-stolen-ukrainian-grain-to-israel/) stolen Ukrainian grain to Israel
"We condemn all actions that help fund Russia's illegal war effort and circumvent EU sanctions, and remain ready to target such actions by listing individuals and entities in third countries if necessary," a European Commission spokesperson said, according to Euronews.

⚡️EU carbon rules could deal heavy blow (kyivindependent.com/eu-carbon-rules-could-cost-ukraine-1-4-billion-report-says/)to Ukraine’s struggling steel sector, report warns
Ukraine could lose $1.4 billion by 2027 under the EU’s carbon border policy, which could slash its iron and steel exports to the bloc by half, according to a new report by the German Economic Team (GET), a Berlin-based consultancy, and the Institute for Economic Research (IER), a Ukrainian think tank.

⚡️Russian Iskander missile storage facility in occupied Crimea hit (kyivindependent.com/ukraines-special-forces-hit-iskander-missiles-storage-facility-in-russian-occupied-crimea-releases-video-footage/), Ukraine's Special Forces release video
The storage facility was located on the territory of a former missile base near the village of Ovrazhki, 40 kilometers (around 25 miles) from the city of Simferopol, Special Operations Forces (SOF) said

⚡️In address (kyivindependent.com/king-charles-emphasizes-unyielding-resolve-in-support-of-ukraine-nato-unity-in-speech-to-us-congress/) to US Congress, King Charles urges 'unyielding resolve' in support of Ukraine, NATO unity.

⚡️ Russian oil facilities in Perm and Orsk struck (kyivindependent.com/russian-oil-facilities-in-perm-and-orsk-struck-as-ukraines-drones-follow-up-tuapse-attacks/) as Ukraine’s drones follow up Tuapse attacks.
Russia’s Defense Ministry reported on April 29 that its air defense intercepted 98 Ukrainian drones.

⚡️Poland, Moldova nationals freed in 5-for-5 swap (kyivindependent.com/poland-moldova-nationals-freed-in-5-for-5-swap/) at Polish-Belarusian border.
As part of the exchange, Poland released Russian archaeologist Alexander Butyagin, who had been detained over illegal excavations in Russian-occupied Crimea.

⚡️Ukrainian parliament's push for new Civil Code sparks (kyivindependent.com/ukrainian-parliaments-push-for-new-civil-code-sparks-criticism/) criticism.
Lawmaker Inna Sovsun said that Ukrainians have long moved beyond "Soviet-era" concepts of patriarchal family life, which are echoed in the proposed version of the Civil Code.

⚡️Kyiv probe into oligarch Zhevago adds pressure (kyivindependent.com/kyiv-probe-into-oligarch-zhevago-adds-pressure-as-ferrexpo-nears-london-listing-suspension/) as Ferrexpo nears London listing suspension
The Pechersk Court greenlit a pretrial investigation into wanted oligarch Kostyantyn Zhevago on April 28, a month after French authorities served Zhevago a notice of suspicion for a case involving the misappropriation of Hr 519 million ($11.7 million).

⚡️Yellow Ribbon to 'completely reformat' flawed chatbot (kyivindependent.com/yellow-ribbon-to-completely-reformat-flawed-chatbot-following-kyiv-independent-investigation/) following Kyiv Independent investigation
In a post on Telegram, the group said currently it was only issuing "safety instructions" and a complete overhaul would be done "in the near future."
The Kyiv Independent investigation (kyivindependent.com/investigation-a-secret-program-suicidal-missions-and-death-torture-in-occupied-ukraine/) published last week revealed how a Western-funded classified program supported the "non-violent" initiative inside Russian-occupied Ukraine for more than three years, despite credible reports of the deaths, torture, and imprisonment of activists.

What happens after Russia's abducted (kyivindependent.com/what-happens-after-russias-abducted-children-finally-return-to-ukraine/) children finally return to Ukraine?
"Returning alone is not enough. Reintegration is one of the most complex stages of this process," writes Iryna Tuliakova, Head of Ukraine's Coordination Center for Family Upbringing and Child Care Development, in this op-ed.
"Children return with very different experiences — from prolonged isolation and disrupted education to the absence of access to basic services. Many have lost continuity in learning, have unmet health needs, and require time to readapt to a different social and educational environment."

In Ukraine, rare mass shooting rekindles debate over civilian gun rights (kyivindependent.com/in-ukraine-rare-mass-shooting-rekindles-debate-over-civilian-gun-rights/)
[...]
[...] incidents of non-fatal shootings were reported in the cities of Khmelnytskyi, Lviv, Bucha, and Kharkiv. What followed was a renewed gun control debate that continues to divide public opinion in Ukraine over whether civilians should be allowed to legally carry handguns, with vocal supporters both for and against.

⚡️ Russian attacks on Ukraine (kyivindependent.com/russian-attacks-on-ukraine-killed-injured-over-past-day-damaged-hospital-in-odesa/) kill 5, injure 23 over past day, Odesa hospital damaged.
Russia launched 171 drones at Ukraine overnight, the Air Force said, adding that air defenses intercepted 154, while 12 strikes were recorded across 10 locations, and debris from downed drones fell at 12 locations.

Ragnar Bjartur Gudmundsson 🇺🇦‬
‪@ragnarbjartur.bsky.social‬

⚡️ RUSSIA'S WAR AGAINST UKRAINE — APR 29, 2026
■ New 🇷🇺 gains of 107 km² confirmed (167 km² net over the last 30 days, with heavy casualties)

Daily engagements below average, but casualties and equipment losses remain above average
■ Overnight attacks (all drones) below the 7-day average; good interception rate
■ 10 🇺🇦 strikes reported, but all 🇷🇺 strike indicators—except MLRS—are also above average

UNITED24 Media Telegram Highlights

“Russia is planning new offensives and expanding its mobilization,” President Zelenskyy said following a report by the Main Intelligence Directorate.
The president stated that documents from the Russian General Staff confirm that even the Russians themselves admit their inability to fulfill assigned tasks.
Despite this, he said, Moscow is preparing new operations and increasing the size of its army. Meanwhile, Russia’s irreparable losses already amount to approximately 60% of its total.

Ukraine and the United States discussed the protection of water supply and wastewater facilities from Russian strikes, Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko said after meeting with US Energy Secretary Chris Wright at a summit in Croatia.

🇱🇻 Latvia will transfer additional CVR(T) armored combat vehicles to Ukraine, the press service of the Latvian Ministry of Defense announced.
The exact number of vehicles has not been specified. The ministry noted that this assistance will not affect the operational capabilities of the Latvian army.

President Zelenskyy held a meeting on the export of Ukrainian weapons and proposed Drone Deals to partners. Ukraine is also preparing a list of countries to which exports will be prohibited due to cooperation with the Russian Federation.
According to him, Ukrainian companies will receive a real opportunity to enter the markets of partner countries, provided that the Ukrainian military has priority access to the required volume of weapons.
The President also instructed government officials and the National Security and Defense Council to provide the public with the necessary information on the details of the arms export process.

Viktor Orbán says he wants to step down as Fidesz leader, but he has not yet been released from the position.
The Hungarian prime minister said his request was not supported. The party leadership is expected to decide the issue at a congress on June 13.
János Fonagy, a representative of the faction, told the Hungarian publication Telex that there is currently no alternative to Orbán and that the majority of party members support him.
Orbán has led Fidesz since 1993 and has served as the country’s prime minister for 16 years. He previously said he was giving up his parliamentary mandate but would remain in the party.

❗️Germany is in talks with Poland over oil supplies amid a potential loss of Kazakh volumes delivered via the Druzhba pipeline.
Germany is negotiating with Poland on the transit of additional oil for the refinery in Schwedt, as Russia may cut off the transit of Kazakh oil through its territory.
According to Bloomberg, citing a representative of the German Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, the plant near Berlin, which has been receiving these supplies since 2023 via the northern branch of Druzhba, could be left without them as early as next month.
The government says this does not threaten the country’s energy security, although the refinery may operate at reduced capacity.
The publication also reports that the company supplying Germany with aviation fuel is looking for alternative sources, while the Czech Republic is preparing measures in case of disruptions.

“Able to fly 25 km and operate under electronic warfare conditions.” Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov showed a photo of a new type of FPV drone.
The Ministry of Defense, together with Brave1, tested a new generation of strike FPV drones from eight Ukrainian manufacturers at a testing site. UAV effectiveness advisor Serhii Sternenko is also involved in the development of this FPV class.
The mnister reported that during the tests, the drones covered up to 25 km and successfully operated under various electronic warfare systems. Some solutions fully confirmed their effectiveness in combat conditions.
Fedorov emphasized that the task of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine is to rapidly scale technologies and ensure their delivery to the Defense Forces.
To this end, codification procedures have been simplified, the approach to defining requirements has been changed, and 80% of resources have been directed toward proven battlefield solutions. Regular field testing has also been introduced.
For each UAV class, a separate testing methodology is being developed. All manufacturers whose solutions are not yet state-contracted are involved in testing. If a drone proves effective in combat conditions, the contracting and scaling process is launched immediately, the head of the department noted

The Russian Federation deliberately attacked emergency workers with drones in Marhanets, Dnipropetrovsk region, the State Emergency Service reported.
The depot and special equipment were damaged. Rescuers took cover in time, which helped avoid casualties among personnel, the report said.

Singing on the Bones: the Russian occupiers organized an Easter concert in the rebuilt Mariupol Drama Theater, where hundreds of people died.
Officials of the occupation administration and representatives of the Russian clergy took part in the event. They spoke about the “power of Russian culture” and spirituality.
“The cynicism of the situation is striking — the occupiers are deliberately holding their ‘celebrations’ precisely in places of mass tragedies.

French actor and writer Jean Reno has presented his second book, a spy thriller titled “Escape,” about the abduction of Ukrainian children by Russian occupiers.
The plot centers on Emma, a former masseuse recruited by the French foreign intelligence agency DGSE. She travels to Siberia to infiltrate a so-called “rehabilitation camp” for Ukrainian teenagers and document Russian crimes.
In an interview with the French TV channel Télé 7, Jean Reno said he was inspired by real stories of abducted Ukrainian children.

Kyiv Post Telegram Highlights

The United Arab Emirates is set to leave the OPEC and OPEC+ groupings (www.kyivpost.com/post/74937) on May 1, state media reported Tuesday, framing the move as a strategic shift by the leading oil producer.

Ukraine is rapidly building a defensive line (www.kyivpost.com/post/74976) from the Kyiv Reservoir to Sumy to block a potential Russian “buffer zone” as Moscow regroups for possible new offensives.

Ukraine’s defense ministry said isolated cases of insufficient food supply to frontline units are under review, (www.kyivpost.com/post/74947) with inspections ordered and accountability promised.

NATO is considering ending its practice of annual summits, (www.kyivpost.com/post/74931) as some members push to ease tensions and improve decision-making.
The move comes amid friction with US President Trump, who has repeatedly criticised allies for low defence spending and limited support for US operations against Iran.

Ukrainian sea drones struck the sanctioned tanker MARQUISE in the Black Sea near Russia’s Tuapse.
The Cameroon-flagged vessel was transporting Russian oil and likely awaiting a ship-to-ship transfer at the time of the strike.

Ukraine has said shipments of grain stolen by Russia from occupied territories have been received not only by Israel, but also by Turkey, Egypt and Algeria.
The Foreign Ministry added that several vessels are still transporting such cargo.

Moscow’s May 9 parade will take place without military hardware this year due to the current security situation, Russia’s Defence Ministry said.
The last time the parade was held without military equipment was in 2007.

Newly revealed “Mindich tapes” appear to link senior Ukrainian officials and figures close to the (www.kyivpost.com/post/74986) president to a major corruption scheme in the energy sector.
Investigators say the case involves around $100 million in alleged kickbacks tied to contracts at state nuclear company Energoatom.

North Korea’s dictator Kim Jong Un has confirmed (www.kyivpost.com/post/74967) for the first time that troops fighting in Ukraine are expected to kill themselves rather than be captured.

A Russian officer accused of involvement in Bucha atrocities was reportedly targeted (www.kyivpost.com/post/74987) in an explosion at a military garrison in Russia’s Far East.

Belarusian authorities confirmed they are preventing Russians evading conscription (www.kyivpost.com/post/74991) from leaving via its territory.
Officials stressed the move is not Minsk’s decision, but the enforcement of instructions issued by Moscow.

King Charles III called for “unyielding resolve” in support of Ukraine (www.kyivpost.com/post/74969) during a historic address to the US Congress.
The British monarch also stressed the importance of NATO and transatlantic unity.

Live: Ukraine Telegram Highlights

Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine has proposed special agreements to its partners for the production and supply of Ukrainian weapons.
The initiative covers drones, missiles, ammunition, and other in-demand types of weapons and military equipment, as well as software and integration with partners’ defense systems.
The president also approved the development of automatic export permits for businesses to simplify the process. Weapons will not be supplied to countries cooperating with Russia.
Ukrainian companies will be able to enter partner markets, provided that Ukraine’s armed forces receive the required volume of weapons first.

💥 Russia’s city of Orsk came under a drone attack, according to local Telegram channels.
The city is located about 1,400 km from Ukraine. Explosions were reported in the morning, followed by a fire, likely in the area of an oil refinery — one of the largest in Russia.
Local authorities urged residents to stay indoors. Orsk airport was temporarily closed, and restrictions were also introduced at airports in Perm and Yekaterinburg.

🇱🇻 Latvia’s army commander wants to intercept Russian drones before they reach the border, but currently lacks authorization to do so.
“Of course, we want to shoot down drones right at the border — which means destroying them over Russian territory. But I don’t yet have permission to do that or to strike launch sites. So I cannot guarantee the results society expects,” General Kaspars Pudans said in an interview with LIGA.net.
At the same time, he noted that Latvia is working on its defense strategy and tactics. In case of war, the country is preparing a layered air defense system that would combine electronic warfare, interceptor drones, and low-cost missiles of Ukrainian production.

Ukraine’s air defenses neutralized 154 out of 171 Russian drones overnight. Another 12 UAVs hit targets across 10 locations.
🔴Sumy region. Residential buildings in Shostka district were struck. One woman was killed, and two more people were injured.
🔴Kharkiv. One person was injured in a nighttime Russian attack, and around 10 private homes were damaged.
🔴Odesa region. In Izmail district, a district hospital building was damaged by a strike, with casualties reported.

https://bsky.app/profile/robertscotthorton.bsky.social/post/3mkm7srgox22b

"This has never happened in modern Russian history."
Putin's Central Banker Elvira Nabiullina declared an unprecedented labor shortage in the economy caused by driven by an exodus of 1.5mn people and 1.3mn in the meat grinder.

Checking in and continued thanks to the regular posters. I’m not much of a monarchist and didn’t want Charles to go to the US, but fair play!

https://understandingwar.org/research/russia-ukraine/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-april-29-2026/

Key Takeaways

1. Ukrainian forces are engaged in an operational long-range strike campaign against Russian oil infrastructure and military assets, exploiting overstretched Russian air defenses.
2. Russian President Vladimir Putin used his April 29 phone call with US President Donald Trump to reiterate his commitment to his original war aims and promote his cognitive warfare effort, falsely portraying Ukraine’s defenses as collapsing and Russian victory in Ukraine as inevitable. Ukraine has largely stymied Russian advances across the frontline, blunting the Russian Spring-Summer 2026 offensive thus far.
3. The Kremlin also reportedly used the Trump-Putin call to scold Trump for US-Israeli operations against Iran.
4. Russia’s war in Ukraine is forcing the Kremlin to once again downgrade the festivities for its annual May 9 Victory Day parade, an event that Putin has historically used to posture Russian military power and victory in Ukraine.
5. The Kremlin is likely using the threat of “terrorist activity” to cloak voter suppression and illegal activities in occupied Ukraine ahead of the September 2026 elections.
6. Ukraine’s domestic defense industrial base (DIB) and production capabilities continues to support allies.
7. Ukrainian forces advanced in the Kostyantynivka-Druzhkivka tactical area, western Zaporizhia Oblast, and in the Pokrovsk, Oleksandrivka, and Hulyaipole directions.
8. Russian forces launched 171 drones against Ukraine.

She seems to have aged a lot in the last few years. Cannot imagine why.

Kyiv Independent Telegram Highlights

⚡️ Ukraine overtakes US, 6 EU countries in Press Freedom Index. (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-overtakes-united-states-on-press-freedom/)
RSF attributed the improvement to Ukraine’s “dynamic media sector and the investigative work carried out by Ukrainian outlets to strengthen transparency in the country’s political life.”

⚡️Pentagon releases (kyivindependent.com/pentagon-releases-400-million-military-aid-package-for-ukraine/) $400 million military aid package for Ukraine.
The Pentagon has released a $400 million military aid package for Ukraine after months of delays and mounting pressure from U.S. lawmakers, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed on April 29.

⚡️Putin calls with Trump, proposes 'Victory Day' truce (kyivindependent.com/putin-calls-trump-proposes-victory-day-truce-in-ukraine/) in Ukraine.
The Russian leader voiced readiness to declare a truce in Ukraine for the Victory Day celebrations, which Russia holds on May 9, the Kremlin said.

Russia’s offensive tactics on full display in fight for Sloviansk (kyivindependent.com/with-fresh-pressure-near-sloviansk-russias-stop-start-offensive-nears-ukraines-fortress-belt/)
"The Russians have the task of starting the occupation of Sloviansk in the summer."
The words of Dmytro "Lifecell" come without drama, panic, or mockery.
But on the cusp of what could be one of the most decisive summer campaigns in one of the most important sectors of the front line in Ukraine's far eastern Donbas.

⚡️Update: Ukraine confirms (kyivindependent.com/ukrainian-drones-reportedly-strike-russian-oil-tanks-before-flames-from-previous-attacks-extinguished/) 3rd devastating drone strike on Russia's Tuapse oil refinery.
Tuapse has faced intensified strikes over the past weeks, including strikes on the Tuapse oil refinery on April 20 and April 16, leaving multi-day fires burning in the Russian town.

⚡️Ukraine parliament inches through reforms (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-parliament-inches-through-reforms-as-funding-deadlines-loom/) as funding deadlines loom.
Reform progress has slowed amid the fifth year of Russia's full-scale invasion and gridlock in Ukraine's parliament, delaying billions of dollars, which are conditional on Kyiv implementing the changes.

⚡️ Syrskyi orders soldiers’ mandatory rotation (kyivindependent.com/syrskyi-orders-soldiers-mandatory-rotation-from-front-line-positions-after-2-months/) from front-line positions after 2 months.

⚡️Ukraine asks Israel to seize (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-asks-israel-to-seize-vessel-with-stolen-grain-as-diplomatic-row-escalates/)vessel (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-asks-israel-to-seize-vessel-with-stolen-grain-as-diplomatic-row-escalates/) with stolen grain as diplomatic row escalates.
The announcement came amid an escalating diplomatic spat, with Kyiv saying Israel has ignored appeals to prevent goods stolen by Russia from reaching Israeli ports.

⚡️ Israel turns away ship with (kyivindependent.com/ship-with-stolen-ukrainian-grain-rejected/) stolen Ukrainian grain in win for Kyiv.
"The Russian supplier of the cargo will have to find an alternative destination to unload it," Israel's Grain Importers Association said.

⚡️Ukraine confirms drone strikes (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-confirms-drone-strikes-on-russian-air-defense-system-oil-depot-in-occupied-crimea/) on Russian air defense system, oil depot in occupied Crimea.
Other targets included a MR-10 radar station, an air defense command post, and a Patrol 4 ground-based radar interrogator on an airfield in Sevastopol, on the southern coast of occupied Crimea, according to the General Staff.

As Patriots run low, Ukraine may have invented a new way to down Russia’s ‘unstoppable’ Kinzhal missiles (kyivindependent.com/patriots-or-no-patriots-ukraine-may-have-solved-the-problem-of-russias-kinzhal-missiles/)
A Ukrainian electronic warfare project claims to have cracked Russia’s vaunted hypersonic missile, the Kinzhal, one of the fastest and most feared of its kind in the world.
The 'Night Watch' air defense unit has built a growing network of electronic warfare stations across Ukraine since 2023. Their core weapon, the 'Lima' EW station, has proven capable of bringing down even Kinzhal missiles — silently, without detonation.

⚡️ JD Vance 'helping Russians' (kyivindependent.com/vances-pride-in-halting-ukraine-aid-means-hes-helping-russians-zelensky-says/) by supporting halt to Ukraine aid, Zelensky says.
"I'm not sure that it's strengthening the United States," President Volodymyr Zelensky said.

⚡️2 Russian helicopters struck (kyivindependent.com/2-russian-helicopters-struck-in-russias-voronezh-oblast-ukraines-elite-drone-unit-says/) in Russia's Voronezh Oblast, Ukraine's elite drone unit says.
Four Russian helicopters were conducting rapid refueling and technical checks when the long-range Ukrainian drone attack hit two of them: a Soviet-designed Mi-28 and a Mi-17, according to the 414th Brigade, better known as Magyar's Birds.

⚡️Japanese drone maker doubles down on Ukraine as (kyivindependent.com/terra-drone-moves-deeper-into-ukraine-with-second-investment-as-tokyo-loosens-arms-rules/) Tokyo eases arms rules.
During a presentation in Japan on April 28, Terra Drone CEO Toru Tokushige announced a partnership with Ukrainian firm WinnyLab. The investment comes a week after Japan lifted a ban on weapons exports put in place following the Second World War.

Magyar's Russian energy phase-out plan for Hungary falls short

• (https://kyivindependent.com/magyars-russian-energy-phase-out-plan-for-hungary-falls-short/)* Peter Magyar's plan to end Hungary's reliance on Russian fossil fuels seems to lack urgency — and risks perpetuating Viktor Orban's legacy. Magyar's Tisza party, which is to form the new government in May, has set 2035 as the deadline to end the country's energy reliance on Moscow. But experts argue that Hungary could pivot much faster, as long as there is "political will."

⚡️US pledges financial support for G7 initiative to repair Chornobyl (kyivindependent.com/us-pledges-financial-support-for-g7-initiative-to-repair-chornobyl-confinement-structure/) confinement structure.
The U.S. has pledged up to $100 million for a Group of Seven (G7) initiative for repairs to the New Safe Confinement (NSC) arch at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant, the State Department announced April 29.

⚡️Ukrainian drones reportedly strike (kyivindependent.com/ukrainian-drones-reportedly-strike-russian-explosives-plant-in-nizhny-novgorod-oblast/) Russian explosives plant in Nizhny Novgorod Oblast.
Ukrainian drones struck an explosives plant in Russia's Nizhny Novgorod Oblast, and explosions were heard overnight on April 30, social media channels reported.

⚡️ Russia’s Perm oil station struck for (kyivindependent.com/russias-perm-oil-station-struck-for-2nd-straight-day-by-ukrainian-drones-fires-reported/) 2nd straight day by Ukrainian drones, fires reported.
Satellite imagery indicates that at least two fuel storage tanks caught fire at an oil pumping station in Russia’s Perm Krai following a drone attack overnight on April 30, according to Russian Telegram channels and local media.

Pussy Riot’s Nadya Tolokonnikova on Navalny, Russian culture, and supporting Ukraine’s military (kyivindependent.com/pussy-riots-nadya-tolokonnikova-on-why-the-russian-opposition-needs-to-better-support-ukraines-military/)
“We don’t just oppose Putin anymore, we’re at war with him,” Nadya Tolokonnikova told the Kyiv Independent during a meeting in Kyiv. “To me, (saying) anything less bold is insufficient to meet the moment.”

⚡️Ambassadors back (kyivindependent.com/ambassadors-back-eu-joining-court-to-prosecute-russian-aggression-final-vote-may-5/) EU joining court to prosecute Russian aggression.
Ambassadors of the EU 27 countries agreed in a meeting on April 29 that the EU should sign up to a Council of Europe special tribunal dedicated to prosecuting Russia's leadership for the international crime of aggression against Ukraine.

From defense deals to luxury homes — Zelensky's associates conversations leaked (kyivindependent.com/media-publishes-new-tapes-of-ukraines-biggest-corruption-scandal-allegedly-featuring-zelenskys-allies/)
Timur Mindich, the alleged ringleader of a major corruption case, reportedly lobbied for the interests of Ukraine's missile and drone maker — Fire Point — in a conversation with then-Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, Ukrainska Pravda reported.
Ukrainska Pravda obtained a transcript of the talks allegedly held between Mindich and a number of current and former officials, publishing the records on April 28.
The first part of what Ukrainska Pravda said would be a series, including three conversations and taking place in June and July of 2025.

⚡️EU Culture Commissioner to boycott (kyivindependent.com/eu-culture-commissioner-to-boycott-venice-biennale-over-russia-presence/) Venice Biennale over Russia presence.
The EU's culture commissioner, Glenn Micallef, told members of the European Parliament that he will not attend the May 9 opening of the Venice Biennale due to its decision to invite Russian participation, in a speech on April 29.

⚡️Russian overnight attack (kyivindependent.com/russian-drones-hit-residential-neighborhoods-in-odesa-overnight-at-least16-injured/) on Odesa damages kindergarten and residential buildings, injures 16.

⚡️ At least 4 killed, 64 people injured (kyivindependent.com/at-least-4-killed-64-people-injured-in-russian-attacks-on-ukraine-over-past-day/) in Russian attacks on Ukraine over past day.
Russian forces launched an Iskander-M ballistic missile and 206 drones against Ukraine overnight, the Air Force said.

Ragnar Bjartur Gudmundsson 🇺🇦‬ ‪@ragnarbjartur.bsky.social‬
· 1h
⚡️ RUSSIA'S WAR AGAINST UKRAINE — APR 30, 2026
■ Record land-based equipment losses and the highest casualties of April; additional 🇷🇺 gains of 137 km² confirmed
■ Record unarmored vehicle losses and the biggest artillery losses this year so far
■ Overnight attacks included 206 drones and one Iskander-M; interception rate could be better
■ 19 🇺🇦 strikes reported (most this April); 🇷🇺 drone launches and shelling above average

https://bsky.app/profile/twmcltd.bsky.social/post/3mkpfawz3o22t

The other big story so far today is another successful Ukrainian attack on oil targets in Russia's Perm' region.

Yesterday it was the pumping station, but today they went for, and hit, the refinery itself.

There are so many incredible videos from LUKOIL-Permnefteorgsintez!

UNITED24 Media Telegram Highlights

During a phone call with US President Donald Trump, Putin proposed declaring a ceasefire for the period of Victory Day. Trump supported the idea, according to Putin’s adviser Yuri Ushakov.
▪️ Putin told Trump that Ukraine is using what he described as terrorist methods to attack civilian targets;
▪️ Trump said a deal to resolve the conflict in Ukraine is already close;
▪️ Putin briefed Trump on the situation on the front, stating that Russian troops are pushing back the enemy and that all the goals of the “SVO” (Special Military Operation) will be achieved, preferably through negotiations;
▪️ Putin said that for a negotiated settlement, Zelenskyy must respond positively to previously outlined proposals;
▪️ Trump shared his assessment of the situation in the Middle East with Putin;
▪️ Putin warned of extremely serious consequences if the US and Israel resort to military action again in the Middle East;
▪️ Putin said Trump’s decision to extend the ceasefire around Iran was correct and could help stabilize the situation;
▪️ Putin stated that a ground operation against Iran would be unacceptable and dangerous;
▪️ Putin said that since the beginning of 2025, Russia has transferred over 20,000 bodies to Ukraine and received just over 500 in return;
▪️ Putin and Trump discussed prospects for mutually beneficial projects in the economy and energy sector and agreed to maintain contacts at various levels;
▪️ The conversation lasted more than 90 minutes. Putin also expressed support for Trump following the assassination attempt and condemned the attack;
▪️Putin conveyed his congratulations to Melania Trump on her belated birthday and noted her role in the reunification of Russian and Ukrainian children with their families.
The American side has not yet commented on the conversation.

The DPRK is already sufficiently armed to potentially penetrate the US air defense system built over decades, — Bloomberg.
At the end of January, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung said that Pyongyang is already capable of producing enough material for up to 20 nuclear weapons per year.
At this pace, the DPRK could compete even with France in the coming years, the publication notes. Within a decade, its arsenal could surpass those of Israel, Pakistan, and the United Kingdom.
According to the report, Hwasong intercontinental ballistic missiles may already be capable of overcoming the GMD system, which has 44 interceptors and typically requires two per target. In the event of an attack involving several dozen ICBMs, its capacity could be insufficient, the journalists added.

Ukraine’s partners asked it not to strike Russian oil terminals because of the war in the Middle East, but “I said no,” President Zelenskyy said in an interview with Newsmax.
What else he said:
▪️ Russia is not in a strong position and is not winning the war. Ukraine is currently in its best battlefield situation in the past 9–10 months, although ending the war would still be preferable;
▪️ Ukraine has supported its partners not only in the Middle East but also fulfilled requests from some US agencies, including assistance related to US bases;
▪️ Russia’s control of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant could lead to a disaster similar to Chornobyl.

This year, five times more medium-range strike systems have been contracted than last year, and we will continue to scale up contracting and production, — President Zelenskyy.

Ukrainian drones managed to penetrate a special protective shelter during an attack on Iskander systems in Crimea, — Defense Express.
Analysts from the military outlet reported that Ukrainian UAVs not only hit the target but also penetrated Soviet-era concrete shelters up to 60 cm thick, with an additional layer of soil.
This was made possible by more powerful warheads on medium-range strike drones, including the FP-2 carrying 105 kg of explosives, Defense Express added.
On the night of April 28, Ukrainian drones destroyed concealed equipment at a former missile base near the village of Ovrazhky, 40 km from Simferopol in temporarily occupied Crimea.

❗️Poland will test drones and military equipment on the front lines in Ukraine.
Polish Deputy Defense Minister Cezary Tomczyk stated that some systems will first be tested domestically and then in real combat conditions in Ukraine to gain practical experience.
He called Ukraine a “unique testing ground” due to ongoing military operations. Another focus will be technology exchange and strengthening the defense industries of both countries.

Russia has added four liquefied natural gas tankers to its fleet, which could help increase its market share ahead of an EU ban on Russian gas imports.
On Wednesday, the Russian registry listed four gas carriers: Orion (formerly Sea LNG), Luch (formerly Lake LNG), Mercury (formerly Zahit LNG), and Kosmos (formerly Cagri LNG). All of the vessels were built in 2005–2006.

☢️ The Norwegian government has announced the allocation of 500 million Norwegian kroner to strengthen Ukraine’s nuclear safety, — Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko.

Russia has increased its military contingent in Africa by 8,000 personnel and is trying to introduce the use of drones in every country where it is present through supply, local production, and training, — President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said after a report by the head of the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine, Oleh Luhovskyi.
“In our assessment, the expansion of such military activity by Russia could inevitably lead to the modernization and strengthening of terrorist organizations, cross-border crime, and instability in regions that are critical in terms of migration.
It is important to jointly counter this — we will coordinate with partners.”

Ukrainian defense tech company Odd Systems has introduced its first domestically developed daytime tactical digital camera, the “Svitlych-662,” designed for use in drones and other systems relying on computer vision.
Details: united24media.com/war-in-ukraine/ukraine-builds-its-own-drone-eyes-with-new-low-light-svitlych-662-camera-18336

Almost 2,300 North Korean soldiers have died in the fighting in the Kursk region. The DPRK sent about 14,500 troops to support Russia, according to the South Korean outlet NK Pro.
In April, a memorial complex and the Museum of Combat Achievements in Foreign Military Operations were opened in Pyongyang. Memorial columns bearing the names of North Korean soldiers who died abroad were installed on the museum’s grounds.
Journalists counted 2,288 names on the columns. Given that participation in the war on Russia’s side is the first “foreign operation” for DPRK soldiers, they believe all of them died in the Kursk region.
During the opening of the complex, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un praised soldiers who, following the example of Russian troops, chose suicide over surrender. He called it a “dignified death” for a soldier.
Experts interviewed by journalists say the columns are “designed to remind the Russian authorities that they have a debt to the DPRK.” [good luck with that, NK]
On the Russian side, the opening ceremony was attended by State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin and Defense Minister Andrei Belousov.

Ukraine receives mobile F-16 simulators: Accelerating pilot training and strengthening air defense, — Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov announced
F-16 fighter jets are already defending Ukraine’s airspace. To improve the effectiveness of intercepting aerial targets, it is essential to enhance pilot training and reduce the time from instruction to operational deployment.
With the support of partners, Ukraine has received mobile F-16 simulators in addition to stationary systems. Only a limited number of these simulators exist worldwide due to their high cost, and some are now in Ukraine. This enables continuous pilot training and effectively marks a transition to NATO standards in pilot preparation.
Using the simulators, pilots can rehearse complex combat scenarios before flight, including:
▪️ rapid reaction time and decision-making;
▪️ situational awareness in dynamic combat environments;
▪️ execution of specific mission tasks in a simulated setting.
The simulators were developed specifically to meet Ukraine’s operational requirements and technical specifications, taking into account the country’s geographic characteristics. Their key advantage is mobility, allowing rapid relocation — a critical factor for pilot safety under persistent attack conditions.
More training means faster pilot qualification, preservation of aircraft service life, and significantly greater effectiveness in the air. Defending the airspace remains our top priority. We continue to systematically strengthen our aviation capabilities and respond asymmetrically through technology.

The first international “Forest of Memory” has been planted in Latvia in honor of fallen Ukrainian military foresters.
Near Kamparkalns in the Talsi region, Ukrainian and Latvian specialists planted 2,000 pine trees.

Kyiv Post Telegram Highlights

Civilian solutions for the military? Latvia’s army chief Kaspars Pudāns on what NATO can learn from Ukraine.
In an exclusive interview with Kyiv Post, (www.kyivpost.com/interviews/75005) he also discusses threats from Belarus, Russian influence in the Baltics and key lessons from Ukraine.

Russian oil shipments have significantly declined following strikes by Ukraine’s defense forces, (www.kyivpost.com/post/75027) Zelensky said.
According to intelligence data, loading at Primorsk fell by 13%, at Novorossiysk by 38%, and at Ust-Luga by 43%.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has instructed officials to contact Donald Trump’s team to clarify the details of Russia’s proposal for a short-term ceasefire.
Ukraine wants to understand whether it concerns just a few hours of security for a parade in Moscow or something broader, he said.

Germany approves €11.6 billion in Ukraine aid next year under long-term support plan, with funding secured through 2030 at €8.5 billion annually thereafter.
The funds will support air defence, artillery, ammunition, armoured vehicles, drones, cybersecurity and critical infrastructure.

Ukrainian naval drones hit Russian FSB boats guarding the Kerch Bridge (www.kyivpost.com/post/75069) in Russian-occupied Crimea, targeting key vessels used to secure the crossing and counter sabotage in the Black Sea.

One of our priorities in the coming months is to strike the occupier at depths of 120–150 kilometres, Zelensky said.
These targets primarily include military logistics, depots and command posts, as well as air defence systems and other components of offensive operations against Ukraine.
This year, Ukraine has already contracted five times more mid-range strike capabilities than last year.

Ukrainian authorities added 11 new titles to a blacklist of propaganda (www.kyivpost.com/post/75046) books, citing efforts to counter Russian propaganda.

Russia launched two waves of strikes on Odesa, (www.kyivpost.com/post/75066) injuring 16 civilians and damaging homes, a kindergarten, and infrastructure. Air defenses downed 172 drones across Ukraine.

Russian forces carried out a drone attack on Dnipro, striking a bus carrying civilians.
At least one person was killed and 11 others were injured, according to preliminary reports. The number of casualties may rise.

Ireland will begin phasing out state accommodation for Ukrainian refugees (www.kyivpost.com/post/75018) this summer, affecting around 16,000 people and sparking criticism that the government is abandoning displaced families.

Live: Ukraine Telegram Highlights

Vladimir Putin, speaking at a meeting on the upcoming 2026 State Duma elections, said that strikes on Russian energy facilities in Tuapse could lead to an environmental disaster.
Video shows the aftermath of the latest Ukrainian Defense Forces strike on the Tuapse oil refinery.

🇮🇹 Italy’s Ministry of Culture will conduct a review following the opening of a Russian pavilion at the Venice Biennale, Italian outlet ANSA reports, citing sources.
The Russian pavilion will be accessible to visitors only during the preview days from May 5 to 8. It will then be closed to the public for the remainder of the exhibition, which runs from May 9 to November 22.

🇺🇸 During a conversation with reporters, Donald Trump mixed up Ukraine with Iran.
He claimed that Ukraine had suffered a military defeat and lost 159 ships — an argument he has previously used in reference to Iran.

Ukraine has climbed seven positions in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index, according to the annual report by Reporters Without Borders.
Ukraine now ranks 55th out of 180 countries. Since the start of the full-scale war, it has risen by a total of 50 positions.
At the same time, challenges remain: restricted access for journalists to frontline regions, unresolved cases involving the persecution of media workers, and the impact of the national telethon on media pluralism.
The security indicator remains the weakest due to Russia’s war. According to Reporters Without Borders, Russia is holding 26 Ukrainian journalists — the highest number of detained foreign media workers in the world.
Globally, the level of press freedom has dropped to its lowest point in the past 25 years.

The number of people injured in the strike on Dnipro has risen to five.
Four people have been hospitalized. Cars, buses, a shop, and a residential building were damaged. The fire that broke out at the site of the attack has been extinguished by emergency services.

A lot of significant things today!

The release of a $400m military aid package by The Pentagon sounds like great news. I’m sure JD Vance is thrilled!

How come JD could not stop it? Seems a bit of a snub.

https://understandingwar.org/research/russia-ukraine/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-april-30-2026/

Key Takeaways

1. Russian Security Council Deputy Chairperson Dmitry Medvedev emphasized Russia’s commitment to its war aims in Ukraine and claimed that Russia is in an existential conflict with the West immediately after Trump’s call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on April 29.
2. The United States released a previously-authorized $400 million in funds for Ukraine.
3. Ukraine has received its first mobile F-16 fighter jet flight simulators.
4. Ukrainian forces recently advanced in the Slovyansk and Kostyantynivka directions.
5. Russian forces launched 206 drones toward Ukraine overnight.