Key Takeaways from the ISW:
- Russian forces conducted the largest single drone strike of the war against Ukraine on the night of May 17 to 18 — in disregard of US President Donald Trump’s calls for Russia to stop long-range strikes against Ukraine, particularly against Kyiv Oblast.
- The Kremlin continues efforts to project Russia’s military strength ahead of US President Donald Trump’s scheduled phone call with Putin on May 19.
- Reported support within the Russian military and society for continuing the war until Russia achieves its original war aims and territorial demands reflects the success of the Kremlin’s years-long narrative efforts to justify a protracted war effort.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky continues efforts to negotiate a diplomatic end to the war in Ukraine.
- Russian forces recently advanced near Borova and Toretsk.
Authors: Anna Harvey, Olivia Gibson, Christina Harward, and Frederick W. Kagan with Nate Trotter.
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