Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned on May 13, 2025, that Russian President Vladimir Putin shows no intention of ending the war in Ukraine. Speaking during his evening address, Zelenskyy cited Ukrainian intelligence and open-source data pointing to Moscow’s preparation for new offensive operations, rather than steps toward de-escalation.
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Record-High Drone and Missile Barrages Mark New Escalation
Recent days have witnessed a surge in cross-border drone warfare. According to Ukraine’s Air Force, Russia launched 364 aerial attack units, including 355 attack drones and nine cruise missiles. Ukrainian defenses intercepted all nine missiles and successfully neutralized 288 drones. Despite the effective defense, damage from debris was reported in multiple regions across Ukraine.
In parallel, the Russian Ministry of Defense claimed it shot down 128 Ukrainian drones across 12 regions. The massive scale and frequency of these drone exchanges underscore the intensifying nature of the conflict, which has now dragged on for over three years with no sign of a ceasefire.
Largest Air Strike of the War Leaves Civilian Casualties
Ukrainian authorities recently described one of Russia’s latest air assaults as the largest since the war began. That attack involved more than 367 drones and missiles, resulting in the deaths of at least 18 civilians. The strike highlighted the ongoing humanitarian toll of the war and raised global alarm over Russia’s escalating air campaign.
Trump Criticizes Both Putin and Zelenskyy
Former U.S. President Donald Trump publicly condemned the attack, accusing Putin of “killing many people” and questioning his motives. Trump also criticized Zelenskyy’s rhetoric, implying that it may hinder diplomatic efforts. Despite his criticism, Trump has previously coordinated with both leaders during his presidency.
Kremlin Thanks Trump as Diplomatic Talks Falter
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed gratitude to both Americans and President Trump for his contributions to ongoing dialogue, calling it “a very important achievement.” However, Ukrainian officials cast doubt on the Kremlin’s sincerity, pointing to continued air assaults as evidence that Moscow’s diplomatic gestures are not genuine.
Russia’s Strategy Reflects Long-Term War Intentions
Zelenskyy accused Russia of “relying on a long war” and demonstrating “a clear disregard for all people around the world who want peace.” He reiterated Ukraine’s position that Moscow’s military aggression directly contradicts its public statements about diplomacy.
Civilian Impact and Global Implications of Ongoing Conflict
The unrelenting drone and missile warfare has inflicted psychological and physical trauma on civilians, highlighting the devastating cost of the conflict. Meanwhile, the international community continues to grapple with how to balance diplomatic negotiations against the harsh realities on the ground.
Intelligence Reports Signal More Violence Ahead
Fresh intelligence suggests Russia is preparing for further aggression, raising fears of new assaults in the coming weeks. While global diplomats continue to push for peace behind closed doors, these developments point to deepening challenges and increasing human costs.
Conclusion: A Call for Genuine Commitment to Peace
President Zelenskyy’s message underscores the urgent need for an authentic commitment to peace from all parties involved. As Ukraine continues its fight to defend its sovereignty and protect its citizens, the world watches with concern. The ongoing violence is not just a regional issue—it has broad geopolitical implications, reshaping global security and international relations.
The hope remains that sustained diplomatic pressure, international unity, and a commitment to peace can eventually bring an end to this devastating war. Until then, Ukraine stands resilient in the face of relentless aggression, and the international community must not waver in its pursuit of a just and lasting resolution.