United States
Olena Zelenska said that the meeting between Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Donald Trump was a difficult test. Despite this, the President of Ukraine withstood the tense conversation with dignity.
May 17 – Walnut Day! Try making nut butter, halva, chocolate chip cookies with nuts, or churchkhela according to simple recipes.
US Special Representative Steve Witcoff canceled his visit to Putin due to his refusal to discuss the 22-point peace plan developed jointly with Ukraine and Europe. The plan was discussed between Ukrainian and American officials.
The selection includes films of various genres: comedies, dramas, adventures. Among them: "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F.", "Nymph", "A Man Called Otto" and others.
Estonia is hosting the largest military exercises Hedgehog 25, involving 16,000 soldiers from 10 NATO countries. Tallinn is building 600 bunkers and a military base on the border with Russia.
The President of Ukraine emphasized that strong sanctions against Russia are necessary for real diplomacy and ending the war. He noted the weakness of the Russian delegation in Istanbul.
As a result of the Russian attack on the bus, 9 people died, including a family. Zelenskyy emphasized the need to strengthen sanctions against the Russian Federation to stop the killings.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Andriy Sybiha, called for increased pressure on Russia after a deadly attack on a bus in the Sumy region. As a result of the attack, 9 people died and 7 more were injured.
According to media reports, Russia demands that Ukraine renounce territories and reparations, and stated that a ceasefire is possible only after the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from 4 regions that Russia considers its own.
Moody's downgrades US rating from Aaa to Aa1, citing failure to control debt. This is the first time in over 100 years, following actions by Standard & Poor's and Fitch.
Powerful storms, possibly tornadoes, raged in St. Louis. At least 5 people died, more than 5,000 homes were damaged, and 100,000 customers were without power.
The presidential elections in Poland may influence relations with Ukraine, especially regarding the Volhynia tragedy and support for EU accession. Various scenarios are being considered depending on the winner.
Due to cuts in US aid, $98 million worth of food rations, enough for 3. 5 million people, are spoiling in warehouses. The Trump administration has cut programs, and supplies may be disposed of.
Ten prisoners escaped from a prison in New Orleans by breaking through a wall. Two were detained, eight are wanted, police are checking the involvement of prison staff.
Donald Trump has stated his willingness to visit China for negotiations with Xi Jinping on important issues. He also emphasized the importance of keeping Arab countries out of Beijing's influence.
Minister Sybiha emphasized that the negotiations with Russia in Istanbul showed the need to put pressure on the aggressor. An exchange of 1,000 prisoners was agreed, but Russia is not ready for peace.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed disappointment over Russia's lost opportunity to start ceasefire negotiations. During the talks, Russia made unacceptable demands and threatened to seize new territories.
Syria plans to print its national currency in the UAE and Germany, refusing the services of Russia. This is happening against the background of the easing of EU and US sanctions and the conclusion of economic agreements with the UAE.
Donald Trump intends to find out the details of the negotiations in Istanbul. Macron supported the ceasefire in Ukraine and expressed regret over Putin's refusal to meet.
The Presidents of Ukraine and Montenegro discussed efforts for a just peace and strengthening cooperation in various fields, including European integration. They also agreed on a schedule of events with the participation of leaders of Southeast European countries.
Putin's plan to present the meeting in Istanbul as a continuation of March 2022 has failed. Ukraine will insist on a ceasefire and a direct meeting between Zelensky and Putin.
Hadi Matar, who attacked Salman Rushdie with a knife in 2022, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison. The writer lost an eye and is experiencing nightmares after the attack.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, discussing support, strengthening air defense, and investments in drone production. He also held talks with the leaders of Denmark, Moldova, Bulgaria, and Sweden.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Rosen Zhelyazkov and discussed a ceasefire and security guarantees. They also talked about the completion of the Khmelnytskyi NPP and cooperation in the Black Sea region.
Denmark, one of the leaders in supporting Ukraine, is preparing the 26th package of military aid. Zelenskyy discussed further support and investments in the defense industry with the Prime Minister of Denmark.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated that Russia did not show goodwill at the negotiations in Istanbul, putting forward unacceptable conditions. Politicians will continue to work for peace in Ukraine.
The US plans to discuss with European allies the reduction of American troops in Europe. The discussions will take place after the NATO summit in The Hague, which is scheduled for June.
The US Department of Homeland Security is considering a reality show where 12 immigrants compete for citizenship. Participants will perform cultural and physical tasks while traveling the country.
At the talks in Istanbul, the Ukrainian delegation discussed the possibility of a meeting between Zelensky and Putin. It is at such a meeting that an agreement on a ceasefire can be reached.
European armed forces need urgent improvement to respond to future crises. Priorities are ammunition, air defense, mobility and intelligence.