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Ukraine War Update: Russia Shifts to Air Assaults Amid Ground Losses
Ukraine war briefing: Russia losing on the ground so pivots to air war, say analysts
The Guardian
Image: The Guardian
Analysts report that Russia's failure to gain ground in Ukraine has led to an escalation in air strikes against major cities. The Institute for the Study of War indicates that Russian territorial gains have drastically decreased, while Ukrainian forces have successfully recaptured territory. Concurrently, Ukraine has intensified drone strikes deep into Russian territory, causing significant embarrassment for the Kremlin.
- 01Russian territorial gains in May 2026 were only 14 square kilometers, the lowest since October 2023.
- 02Ukraine's missile and drone manufacturer, Fire Point, successfully test-flew a new ballistic missile intended for air defense.
- 03Ukrainian drone strikes targeted energy and military sites in St Petersburg, causing panic within the Kremlin.
- 04Russian shelling in Kramatorsk resulted in the deaths of at least three civilians, with multiple injuries reported.
- 05The EU is preparing additional sanctions against Russia to limit its oil revenues amid ongoing military operations.
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Due to a lack of progress on the battlefield, Russia has intensified its air assaults on major Ukrainian cities, according to analysts from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW). They noted that Russian forces have made minimal territorial gains, with only 14 square kilometers captured in May 2026, the lowest monthly total since October 2023. Concurrently, Ukraine's military has successfully recaptured territory and conducted drone strikes deep into Russian territory, including attacks on military sites in St Petersburg, which have embarrassed the Kremlin. The ongoing conflict has led to significant civilian casualties, including multiple deaths from Russian shelling in Kramatorsk and Kherson. In response to the escalating violence, the European Union is preparing further sanctions aimed at crippling Russia's oil revenues while increasing support for Ukraine. Negotiations involving Germany, France, and the UK are reportedly underway to explore potential dialogues with Russia, although the timeline for such discussions remains uncertain.
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The ongoing air strikes and drone attacks are causing civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure in Ukraine, impacting daily life and safety.
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