Ukraine
On the night of May 20, Russia attacked Ukraine with 108 Shahed drones. Ukrainian air defense destroyed 93 UAVs in the eastern, northern and central regions.
In Ukraine, the "Yabko" network is suspected of multi-billion dollar tax evasion schemes. The company is implicated in criminal proceedings and linked to individual entrepreneurs (FOPs).
177 combat clashes were recorded last day, mostly in the Pokrovsky, Limansky and Novopavlivsky directions. The Defense Forces struck areas of concentration of personnel and equipment of the enemy.
According to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, on May 19, Russian troops lost 1,030 soldiers and 58 artillery systems. Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, 975,800 occupiers have been eliminated.
Russia is building military bases and infrastructure near the borders of Finland and Estonia. Analysts predict that it will take Russia five years to build up its forces to a threatening level.
On May 20, Ukraine is expected to have cloudy weather with clearings, brief rains, and thunderstorms in many regions during the day. The temperature during the day will range from 12 to 17 degrees.
May 20 is the day of the metrologist, traumatologist, bank employee and bees. The memory of the holy martyr Talalei, who selflessly treated patients, is honored.
US President Donald Trump said that Ukraine is ready for a ceasefire, but it is difficult to assess whether Kyiv's efforts are sufficient. He hopes for a solution to the problem.
There are 29 mobile pharmacy points operating in Ukraine, serving remote communities and front-line regions. The largest number of mobile pharmacies operate in Kharkiv, Kyiv, Cherkasy, and Chernihiv regions.
The US, Ukraine and Europe are calling for a ceasefire before negotiations to end the war. The ISW believes that Russia is simply seeking to continue its offensive on the battlefield.
Putin's speaker stated that there are no deadlines for the preparation of a memorandum between Ukraine and Russia. He added that the draft memorandum will be formulated by both parties, "a single text will be produced".
According to the Estonian Foreign Minister, on May 20, the EU will approve the 17th package of sanctions against Russia, targeting the shadow fleet and energy revenues. The 18th package of restrictions is "already moving".
For meaningful negotiations, Russia must recognize the legitimacy of the President, Government and Constitution of Ukraine. According to analysts, otherwise any agreements will be invalid.
The US President said that he will not tighten sanctions against Russia, as he believes that there is a chance for progress in negotiations. Trump believes that Putin wants to end the war in Ukraine.
Russians in the temporarily occupied territories are creating commissions to control the use of land by farmers. The commissions decide what to sow, the products are seized at reduced prices, and the profits go to the Gauleiters.
During May 19, 156 combat clashes took place at the front, the enemy carried out 50 air strikes and carried out more than 4,000 shellings on the positions of the Armed Forces. The hottest situation is in the Pokrovsk direction.
The Center for Counteracting Disinformation of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine has recorded the creation of fake accounts of the President, the First Lady, the Head of the Presidential Office, and the Head of the SBU. Their official accounts have the appropriate verification mark.
Chief Operating Officer of Bring Kids Back UA met with US Chargé d'Affaires Julie Davis. They discussed the abduction of children, their militarization in the Russian Federation and in the temporarily occupied territories, and ways to return them.
Donald Trump told European leaders about the details of the conversation with Putin, causing concern about a possible deal at the expense of Ukraine's interests. The leaders confirmed their readiness to continue supporting Kyiv.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Europe will introduce a powerful package of sanctions against Russia. The President added that new sanctions will be introduced if the war continues.
Ukraine does not plan to declare neutral status, as required by Russia. This was stated by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky during a briefing.
The President announced negotiations with the Russian Federation regarding the exchange of prisoners of war "1000 for 1000". Ukraine also insists on the return of its political prisoners and journalists.
European leaders agreed with Donald Trump to strengthen sanctions against Russia. This happened after Trump's conversation with Putin regarding a possible memorandum on peace.
President Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine does not plan to withdraw troops from its own territory, rejecting Russia's demands. He emphasized that this is his constitutional duty.
Ukraine may sign a memorandum with Russia on ending the war, which will include a ceasefire. Zelenskyy said he would discuss the Russian Federation's proposals after receiving them.
Ukraine is considering a meeting with the USA, Russia, Great Britain and the EU. The meeting may take place in Turkey, the Vatican or Switzerland.
Putin and Trump did not discuss deadlines for a ceasefire in Ukraine, although Trump expressed interest in a quick agreement. Putin stated his readiness to discuss a peace agreement.
Journalist Anne Applebaum visited Lviv, where she met with local residents and Mayor Andriy Sadovy. None of them believe that Russia wants peace or negotiations.
Before the phone conversation with Putin, Trump asked Zelenskyy what issues were worth discussing. Zelenskyy suggested discussing a ceasefire and a meeting.
Donald Trump stated that Russia and Ukraine will immediately start negotiations to end the war.