ISW Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, May 18, 2025

ISW Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, May 18, 2025

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.

Source: ISW

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