U.S. President Donald Trump’s Special Envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, relied on translators from the Kremlin in his meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin, NBC News reported on May 10, citing a U.S. official and two Western officials with knowledge of the talks.

Witkoff, who has emerged as Trump’s de facto personal envoy to Russian President Vladimir Putin, has met with the Russian president several times in recent months. His most recent visit took place in Moscow on April 26, the day after a mass missile attack killed 12 people in Kyiv.

Witkoff — a real estate tycoon who does not speak Russian — did not employ his own interpreter during these meetings, officials told NBC News. The decision represented a breach of typical protocols and rendered him dependent on Kremlin-provided translators.

“If they speak to each other in Russian, he doesn’t know what they are saying,” one Western official said.

Michael McFaul, former U.S. ambassador to Russia, called Witkoff’s refusal to use his own interpreter “a very bad idea."

“I speak Russian and have listened to Kremlin interpreters and U.S. interpreters at the same meeting, and the language is never the same,” McFaul told NBC News via email.

Witkoff’s conduct in high-profile negotiations has been previously called into question. The New York Post reported on April 30 that his approach caused concern among White House officials, with sources citing his use of Kremlin translators as one problematic choice.  

One source described Witkoff as a “nice guy, but a bumbling f***ing idiot."

In a statement provided to NBC NEws, White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly said that Witkoff “abides by all security protocols in coordination with the State Department."

U.S. President Donald Trump has increasingly expressed frustration with his inability to secure a ceasefire in Russia’s war against Ukraine. While his administration has sought warmer ties with Moscow, Trump backed Ukraine and Europe’s proposal for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire beginning March 12 and said he would impose tougher sanctions against Russia if Putin refused.

Putin did not agree to the proposal. In remarks on May 11, he instead invited Ukraine to begin direct negotiations in Istanbul on May 15. Russia has consistently refused to accept an unconditional ceasefire in its full-scale war against Ukraine.

Most Russians ‘don’t care about the war,’ says journalist Ekaterina Barabash after escaping Russia

In early May, 64-year-old film critic and journalist Ekaterina Barabash made international headlines when it was revealed that she had pulled off a daring escape from house arrest in Russia and sought political asylum in France. Barabash was put under house arrest in February for posts that she had made criticizing Russia’s war against Ukraine. She was accused of spreading “knowingly false” information about the military on her social media. The Kremlin has intensified its crackdown on dissent

The Kyiv IndependentKate Tsurkan

President Volodymyr Zelensky and the leaders of the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Poland agreed on May 10 to impose additional sanctions against Russia if the Kremlin does not accept their proposal for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire.

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk met with Zelensky in Kyiv on May 10. The leaders demanded Russia agree to an unconditional ceasefire of 30 days beginning May 12.

"(The nations) agreed that if Russia refuses a full and unconditional ceasefire, stronger sanctions should be applied to its banking and energy sectors, targeting fossil fuels, oil, and the shadow fleet," the five leaders said in a joint statement.

“They agreed to pass a strong 17th EU sanctions package and to coordinate it with sanctions imposed by the United Kingdom and Norway, as well as by the United States."

The statement also promises continued cooperation on the “effective use of frozen Russian assets” and further support for Ukraine’s military and defense industry.

The European proposal for the 30-day ceasefire is backed by the United States, which first called for a complete month-long truce between Russia and Ukraine in March. Kyiv at the time agreed to the plan, but Russia refused to accept an unconditional ceasefire and insisted Ukraine first give up all foreign military aid.

"(A)n unconditional ceasefire by definition cannot be subject to any conditions,” the joint statement on May 10 said.

“If Russia calls for such conditions, this can only be considered as an effort to prolong the war and undermine diplomacy."

Shortly after Ukraine and its European allies demanded Russia accept the ceasefire agreement, Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered a late-night address marking the end of Moscow’s short-lived Victory Day truce.

Putin did not agree to the 30-day ceasefire and instead invited Ukraine to engage in direct talks with Russia in Istanbul beginning May 15. He also expressed annoyance at “ultimatums” from European states.

Kurt Volker, a former U.S. special representative for Ukraine, said on May 9 that he believes Putin is not interested in a peace deal, but may agree to a ceasefire later in the fall if Ukraine’s allies succeed in imposing tougher sanctions on Russian gas, oil, and financial transactions.

U.S. President Donald Trump on May 8 said the U.S. would join partners in imposing “further sanctions” if Russia does not agree to an unconditional ceasefire.

Editor’s Note: This is a developing story and is being updated.

Russia is inviting Ukraine to engage in direct talks in Istanbul beginning May 15, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on May 11 in a press conference marking the end of Moscow’s Victory Day celebrations.

“Russia is ready for negotiations without any preconditions,” Putin said.

There have been no direct talks between Russia and Ukraine since shortly after Moscow launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Putin notably did not announce an extension of the three-day truce or agree to Ukraine and Europe’s proposal for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire. Such an agreement could be negotiated during the Istanbul talks, he said.

Putin unilaterally declared a temporary ceasefire in honor of Victory Day — which Russia observes on May 9 — from midnight May 8 until midnight on May 11. Despite the three-day truce, Russian attacks against Ukrainian civilians and combat operations on the front line continued.

During his remarks, Putin accused Ukraine of escalating attacks against Russia in the days leading up to the Victory Day “truce” and of violating the three-day ceasefire multiple times, including by launching five cross-border incursions into Kursk and Belgorod oblasts.  

These incursions held “no military significance,” he claimed.

Putin also said that he looks forward to “restoring relations with European states,” despite their “anti-Russian rhetoric” and delivery of “ultimatums” to Moscow.

President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders on May 10 demanded that Russia agree to an unconditional 30-day ceasefire starting on May 12. The proposal is backed by U.S. President Donald Trump.

If Russia refuses the proposal, Europe and the U.S. are threatening to respond with increased sanctions.

Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said earlier that Russia needs to “think about” the ceasefire proposal and is “resistant to any kinds of pressure."

As Western leaders press for an extended ceasefire, Russia has sent some signals that indicate a potential escalation of attacks.

The Ukrainian defense news outlet Militarnyi reported on May 10 that Russia is closing its airspace over the Kapustin Yar military training and rocket launch complex from May 12 to 13, raising speculation of a possible Oreshnik missile launch.

A similar ban was put in place ahead of Russia’s first Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile strike on Ukraine.

The U.S. embassy in Kyiv also issued a warning on May 9 that Russia could launch “a potentially significant” attack in the coming days, although they have previously issued similar warnings as part of standard security protocols.

‘We have not surrendered’ — how Ukrainians living under Russian occupation defied Putin’s ‘Victory Day’

Editor’s Note: The identities of Yellow Ribbon activists who live in Russian-occupied territory have been withheld for security reasons. “When my child hears about May 9 they almost scream, and so do I,” an activist with the Ukrainian Yellow Ribbon civil resistance group currently living in the Russian-occupied town of Tokmak in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, tells the Kyiv Independent. “Every week at school, from the very beginning of the semester, my kid has to do something about May 9,’” “We have le

The Kyiv IndependentYuliia Taradiuk

The United States has approved the transfer of 125 long-range artillery rockets and 100 Patriot air defense missiles from Germany to Ukraine, the New York Times (NYT) reported on May 10.

The American-made weapons cannot be exported, even by a country that owns them, without approval from the U.S. government.

A U.S. congressional official on May 9 announced that Washington had given the green light for Germany to transfer the weapons to Kyiv, the NYT reported. The shipment includes 125 long-range artillery rockets and 100 Patriot air defense missiles.

The Patriot air defense system is widely recognized for its high-precision detection, tracking, and interception of aircraft, cruise, and ballistic missiles. Ukraine reportedly has only eight Patriot systems, two of which are currently not in service. An additional Patriot system is on its way to Ukraine from Israel as part of a previously arranged commitment, the NYT reported on May 4.

Kyiv faces a shortage of ammunition for its Patriots, though details about its missile stocks have not been disclosed for security purposes. President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeatedly urged the U.S. and international partners to provide additional Patriot systems and missiles as Russian attacks against Ukrainian cities intensify.

Production of Patriot missiles is expensive and complex, meaning the shortage is a worldwide issue.

At least two Patriot missiles are needed to intercept a ballistic missile, Ukrainian aviation expert Kostiantyn Kryvolap told the Kyiv Independent on May 6. Russia has escalated its ballistic missile attacks against Ukraine, making April the deadliest month for Ukrainian civilians since September 2024.

Germany has provided Kyiv with air defense support, including Patriot missiles and IRIS-T systems, in previous military aid packages. Newly elected German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv on May 10, along with other European leaders, to reaffirm Germany and Europe’s support for Ukraine and commitment to securing a ceasefire deal.

Most Russians ‘don’t care about the war,’ says journalist Ekaterina Barabash after escaping Russia

In early May, 64-year-old film critic and journalist Ekaterina Barabash made international headlines when it was revealed that she had pulled off a daring escape from house arrest in Russia and sought political asylum in France. Barabash was put under house arrest in February for posts that she had made criticizing Russia’s war against Ukraine. She was accused of spreading “knowingly false” information about the military on her social media. The Kremlin has intensified its crackdown on dissent

The Kyiv IndependentKate Tsurkan

The newly appointed Pope Leo XIV spoke out against Russia’s continued war against Ukraine in an interview on May 9.

Speaking with Peruvian news outlet Semanario Expresión, Pope Leo condemned Russia’s war against Ukraine, characterizing it as a “a true invasion, imperialist in nature, where Russia seeks to conquer territory for reasons of power.”

Pope Leo was appointed just earlier this week on May 8, following the death of Pope Francis on April 21 at the age of 88. On May 7, cardinals officially opened the historic conclave in the Vatican to choose the next head of the Catholic Church.

By clearing naming Russia’s imperialist aspirations in Ukraine, the new pope’s comments come as a departure from his predecessor’s position on the war.

While Pope Francis was widely seen as a reformer who led the church with compassion and humanity, his legacy in Ukraine is more complex.

Throughout Russia’s full-scale invasion, many Ukrainians viewed Pope Francis' statements as failing to clearly assign responsibility for the war. His description of Ukrainians and Russians as “brothers” was perceived as painfully out of touch amid Moscow’s brutal war.

Additionally, while Pope Francis repeatedly called for peace, he also failed to call out Russia as the aggressor or to condemn Russian President Vladimir Putin.

President Volodymyr Zelensky recently congratulated the new pope on his appointment, saying, “Ukraine deeply values the Holy See’s consistent position in upholding international law, condemning the Russian Federation’s military aggression against Ukraine, and protecting the rights of innocent civilians.”

As leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo will play a decisive role in shaping how the religious institution responds to Europe’s largest war since World War II.

Most Russians ‘don’t care about the war,’ says journalist Ekaterina Barabash after escaping Russia

In early May, 64-year-old film critic and journalist Ekaterina Barabash made international headlines when it was revealed that she had pulled off a daring escape from house arrest in Russia and sought political asylum in France. Barabash was put under house arrest in February for posts that she had made criticizing Russia’s war against Ukraine. She was accused of spreading “knowingly false” information about the military on her social media. The Kremlin has intensified its crackdown on dissent

The Kyiv IndependentKate Tsurkan

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Russia needs to “think about” the latest proposal from Kyiv for a 30-day ceasefire.

Speaking to CNN correspondent Frederik Pleitgen on May 10, Peskov commented on the ceasefire proposal put forward by Ukraine and its European allies.

Zelensky and European leaders, with the support of United States President Donald Trump, demanded that Russia agree to an unconditional 30-day ceasefire starting on May 12. If Russia refuses the proposal, Europe and the U.S. will respond with increased sanctions.

When asked about the proposal, Peskov responded: “We have to think about that… these are new developments. We have our own position."

Peskov also commented on the increased pressure from Europe.

“Europe is actually confronting us very openly… and we are quite accustomed to it,” Peskov added.

When asked whether Russia can be pressured, Peskov said that “Russia is quite resistant to any kinds of pressure,” while simultaneously claiming that the Kremlin is “open for dialogue… open for attempts to have a settlement in Ukraine."

Peskov also noted that Moscow appreciates “efforts of mediation,” but added that it is “quite useless to pressure” Russia.

Earlier, Peskov rejected the 30-day ceasefire in an interview with ABC News on May 10, claiming that it would be “an advantage” for Ukraine.

Ukraine war latest: Russia continues to attack Ukraine while Victory Day celebrations underway in Moscow

Key developments on May 9: * Russian glide bombs attack Sumy Oblast despite ceasefire, Air Force says * European ministers approve special tribunal to prosecute Russia’s aggression against Ukraine * EU to provide Ukraine with over 1 million shells over 2025, allocate over $2 billion for military aid from Russian frozen assets * US, European allies finalize proposal for 30-day unconditional ceasefire, Reuters report * Ukraine detains Hungarian spy network in westernmost Zakarpattia Oblast,

The Kyiv IndependentThe Kyiv Independent news desk

In a strategic pivot, Chancellor Friedrich Merz's German administration has decided to keep future military aid shipments to Ukraine classified, a move aimed at achieving "strategic ambiguity", reports Spiegel, citing sources within the Merz government.

According to these insider accounts, over the last three intense years of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Germany had openly disclosed the packages of military aid sent to bolster Ukraine’s Defense Forces. However, this transparency appears to be drawing to a close.

"The German government will significantly reduce the communication of weapon system deliveries in the future," sources noted, citing the primary objective: to deprive the aggressor, Russia, of military advantage in Ukraine.

Journalists highlight that the Merz administration is making a "180-degree turn" and reverting to a covert approach regarding arms supplies.

"This will create an environment known as 'strategic ambiguity,' a term used in technical jargon to describe actions intended to obscure maneuvers from adversaries," notes the report.

It remains unclear how Chancellor Merz and his government will keep the Bundestag apprised of future arms shipments, though there is speculation these updates could occur in confidential sessions of the parliamentary Defense Committee.

Previously, Germany has unveiled a new military aid package for Ukraine. This package includes Gepard anti-aircraft systems, IRIS-T air defense missiles, various ammunition calibers, military machinery, drones, assault rifles, medical kits, and more equipment.

Additionally, Germany has been beefing up its own missile defenses, eyeing the procurement of Arrow 4 systems from Israel. As per German Air Force spokesman Lutz Kohlhaus, the nation is continuing its orders of Raytheon's Patriot systems and the purchase of F-35 fighter jets from the U.S.

Speaking at a press conference in Kyiv on May 10, President Volodymyr Zelensky rebuked the idea of establishing a demilitarized zone in the war with Russia.

Zelensky said that the idea of a demilitarized zone is “dead” and emphasized the importance of first securing a ceasefire, European Pravda reported.

The idea of a demilitarized zone as a potential solution to Russia’s war in Ukraine was first floated by United States special envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg. During a Fox News interview on May 7, Kellogg said that Kyiv had proposed creating a demilitarized zone jointly controlled by Ukraine and Russia.

Kellogg described the proposal as a buffer zone with both sides pulling back 15 kilometers, creating a 30-kilometer area monitored by observers from third countries.

At the press conference, Zelensky suggested that Ukraine did not propose creating a demilitarized zone, contradicting Kellogg’s statements.

“The question of the demilitarized zone, the disengagement of troops, I heard about it in the media and not only in the media, from many different people, from many intelligence agencies. Officially, Ukraine did not receive anything like that. But… everyone is looking for opportunities to conduct experiments on us,” Zelensky said.

Zelensky also commented on the complexities of the frontline situation and logistical challenges of a demilitarized zone.

“The issue of a demilitarized zone of 15 km in both directions - and why 15? And from which line will we count, from the border, from which contact line… Even if we talk about 15 km, what will we do with Kherson? This means that there will be no our troops in Kherson. If there will be no our troops in Kherson - we will not have Kherson,” the president said.

According to Zelensky, establishing a demilitarized zone would jeopardize Kyiv’s control of key Ukrainian cities.

“If… we agree to a buffer zone and withdraw 15 kilometers from cities like Kherson, Kharkiv, and Sumy, everyone will have what seems to be peace, but the war will continue in them, because artillery will fly over them. Therefore, it is premature to talk about this today and the idea is currently dead,” Zelensky said.

At the same press conference in Kyiv, Ukraine and its European allies demanded that Russia agree to an unconditional 30-day ceasefire starting on May 12. However, the Kremlin said that it will reject a ceasefire for as long as Ukraine receives Western weapons.

Zelensky, European leaders hold ‘productive’ call with Trump about peace talks

“Ukraine and all allies are ready for a complete unconditional ceasefire on land, in the air, and at sea for at least 30 days, starting as early as Monday,” Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha wrote.

The Kyiv IndependentThe Kyiv Independent news desk

Kremlin's press secretary, Dmitry Peskov, says Russia already knows what to do in response to economic sanctions. According to Peskov, the Russian government shouldn't be frightened by new sanctions, as it has grown accustomed to them since 2014.

In an interview with the Russian media, he mentioned that Russia is prepared for the implications of additional economic restrictions. "Therefore, trying to intimidate us with sanctions is futile," Peskov commented in response to Britain's new economic measures against Russia, outlining 150 trade restrictions.

On May 10, a meeting of the "Coalition of the Willing" took place in Kyiv, attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Following their deliberations, the leaders conducted a phone call with US President Donald Trump, after which they announced a 30-day cease-fire starting Monday, May 12. Prior to the meeting, Merz warned that if Russia does not concede to the West’s peace initiatives, the EU and the US would intensify sanctions and increase support to Ukraine. Trump has reportedly shown support for these measures.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Kyiv for the first time today. He emphasized that the West, including the U.S., is prepared to respond strongly to any anti-peace decisions by the Kremlin, stating, "The ball is now in the court of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin."

Merz elaborated, "Should there be a refusal, significant strengthening of sanctions and extensive support for Ukraine — political, financial, and military — will follow."

This stance is reportedly supported by U.S. President Donald Trump, who is believed to have lost patience with the Russian leader, Merz noted. As a result, there is an "astonishingly high level of agreement" between Europe and the United States today.

However, the German Chancellor remained non-committal about potential negotiations with the Russian president, stating, "If the need arises, if it would help to end the war, I am ready to do much. But first, we must see if we can achieve a ceasefire after this weekend."

Earlier, Chancellor Merz indicated a strong likelihood of a ceasefire agreement in Ukraine by this weekend. Today, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, he arrived in Kyiv to discuss a coalition of the willing, which could potentially undertake a peacekeeping mission in the event of a truce between Kyiv and Moscow.

In early May, 64-year-old film critic and journalist Ekaterina Barabash made international headlines when it was revealed that she had pulled off a daring escape from house arrest in Russia and sought political asylum in France.

Barabash was put under house arrest in February for posts that she had made criticizing Russia’s war against Ukraine. She was accused of spreading “knowingly false” information about the military on her social media.

The Kremlin has intensified its crackdown on dissent in Russia since the start of its full-scale war against Ukraine, not only targeting those who dare to speak out against the war but also fostering a climate of surveillance that hearkens back to the worst periods of the Soviet era, urging Russian citizens to police one another.

For Barabash, the war struck a personal chord — she is the daughter of a renowned Ukrainian academic and her son lives in Ukraine with his family. Unlike many Russians — who either seek to justify the war or retreat into indifference — Barabash felt a moral imperative to speak out

“Most people in Russia aren’t willing to look for the truth,” Barabash told the Kyiv Independent from France.

“They’ve always been taught that Ukraine is just a part of Russia. But this belief is a kind of poison. It’s something that every Russian grows up with, often without even realizing it.”

In this exclusive interview, Barabash reflects on the moment she decided to risk her life to flee Russia, how her Ukrainian heritage shaped her perspective on Russian culture over the years, why even “good Russians” who oppose the war don’t understand Ukraine, and the bleak future facing anyone with a conscience who chooses to remain in today’s Russia.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

The Kyiv Independent: Since the idea for this interview originally came after you escaped house arrest in Russia, I just wanted to start off by asking, how are you doing?

Ekaterina Barabash: I escaped from house arrest in Russia on April 13. I got past the checkpoints and left my home. We had a plan — I was supposed to be free within 24 hours. But things didn’t go as expected, and I ended up having to hide for two and a half weeks. Unfortunately, I can’t share all the details right now. It’s a shame, because some parts are really interesting. Maybe one day I’ll write about it — maybe even a small book.

During that time, I hid in many places — in forests, fields, villages, and so on. It was a bit frightening and definitely dangerous. I knew I had to leave quickly, and that sense of urgency never left me.

We had hoped they wouldn’t notice my absence for at least a few hours, but they realized I was gone very quickly — within just minutes, maybe half an hour. They started searching for me almost immediately. I don’t know all the details of how the search was carried out.

After that, I had to cross the border into a European country. Of course, it was an illegal crossing. From there, things were arranged to help me move forward. A woman from Reporters Without Borders (RSF) came to meet me, and she helped bring me safely to Paris.

The Kyiv Independent: Was there a specific moment when you decided that you would take the risk and escape, or did you know from the moment you were arrested that this was what you had to do?

Ekaterina Barabash: No, I didn’t make the decision right away. At first, when they placed me under house arrest, it felt almost like a breath of fresh air. It was so unexpected — usually, in political cases, people accused of such “crimes” are held in jail while they await trial. But the judge said that because I had a very old mother, and I myself am not so young, they decided to place me under house arrest until the court date.

At first, it gave us hope — even my lawyer believed that I might only receive a large fine rather than jail time. But within a few days, after some conversations with certain people, I realized the risk was very high. The chance of being sentenced to prison was real. I believed I could face five, six, even seven years in a Russian prison — and a Russian prison is worse than death.

That was when some people from Europe, who help political prisoners like me, told me clearly: even though I was at home, I needed to plan my escape.

At first, I was in shock. I never imagined I would have to leave — especially not my mother, who is 96 years old. But eventually, I realized it was the best option. I had to choose between two impossible outcomes: prison or fleeing the country. So, of course, I chose to escape.

That’s when we began the operation. I had coordinators from Europe who guided me through every step. They told me what to do, what to prepare, and explained our plan in detail.

The Kyiv Independent: What makes your case unique among other Russian opposition figures is that you have very strong ties to Ukraine. Does your Ukrainian heritage influence how you view Russia and Russian culture?

Ekaterina Barabash: Yes, I was born in Ukraine, though I was very young when we left — I was only five months old when my parents moved to Moscow. So my entire life has been connected to Russia. I always felt like I had two motherlands: Ukraine and Russia. I was born in Ukraine, but I was raised and educated in Russia, in Moscow.

My family has always had very strong ties to Ukraine. My father, who passed away five months ago, was a well-known figure there. He was a literary critic and the author of many books written in Ukrainian. He was highly respected in the academic community.

Years earlier, my son also moved to Ukraine for personal reasons. He lives there now with his wife and my grandchildren.

So when the war began, my situation was very different from that of my friends in the Russian opposition. For me, it was not just a political crisis — it was a personal tragedy. My closest relatives were there, being targeted by drones and missiles. And I couldn’t stay silent. I couldn’t hold back my grief or outrage.

I couldn’t keep this anger and pain inside me. I started to speak out, openly accusing the Russian government and military of killing innocent people and invading Ukraine. I wrote things like, “I hate you — you are murderers."

My perspective on the war was deeply personal. It wasn’t just politics for me — it was about my family, my roots, and the suffering of people I love.

Even intelligent and well-educated Russian people often don’t truly understand Ukraine. Almost all Russians have been poisoned by imperial propaganda. They’ve been raised with it — it’s part of their worldview.

They’ve always been taught that Ukraine is just a part of Russia. That the Ukrainian language is just a slightly different version of Russian. That Ukrainians are our “younger brothers,” and we are all one people — Russians. I’ve heard this over and over, even from good people, even from those who are against the war.

But this belief is a kind of poison. It’s something that every Russian grows up with, often without even realizing it.

I knew at least a little about Ukrainian culture and history — something most Russians don’t. I’ve done interviews and written about Ukrainian culture. So yes, my point of view was different from the beginning.

The Kyiv Independent: We know that Russia’s war against Ukraine started in 2014, not 2022. In what ways did Russian public opinion about the war in Ukraine change during those eight years?

Ekaterina Barabash: Most people in Russia simply didn’t care — and they still don’t. Even many anti-Putin individuals, including some of my friends, didn’t grasp that the war actually started in 2014. When the invasion happened in 2022, they acted as if it was the beginning of the war. I had to remind them, “No, the war started eight years ago."

Later on, many of them started to understand, at least a little, what had been happening. But the truth is, almost no one cared. They saw (the invasion of Ukraine’s Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts) as some small conflict in eastern Ukraine, maybe with some Russian soldiers involved, but they didn’t recognize it as the coming of something horrific.

They didn’t understand the connection between the illegal annexation of Crimea and the war that followed. Yes, Crimea was officially part of Ukraine. But they thought that (Soviet leader Nikita) Khrushchev had “given” Crimea to Ukraine many years ago and that Russia had long claimed it.

Then came the war.

The Kyiv Independent: What would you want to say to people still in Russia?

Ekaterina Barabash: You know, I’ve recently realized one thing that I didn’t understand at first: it’s impossible to change their minds. It’s like religion — you either believe or you don’t. If you want to know the truth, you can seek out information, but most people in Russia aren’t willing to look for it.

There’s a common response I get when I ask why they don’t check alternative sources, like Ukrainian media. There are plenty of (Ukrainian) outlets that offer Russian-language versions of the news, and many people understand English, so they could easily access European media, too. Yet, they only rely on Russian sources.

The answer I often hear is, “Everyone lies.” They’re willing to accept the lies from Russian propaganda, but they won’t even consider competing narratives from other sources. “Everyone lies,” they say. It’s an awful argument — a foolish one, really.

It’s unfortunate, really, but what can I say to these people? Honestly, there’s nothing more I can say. If you’re scared, just stay silent. I understand — everyone has families, property, and they don’t want to end up in jail. But if you care, then leave Russia, if you can, if it’s possible.

I know it’s not easy to leave behind elderly parents. I never intended to leave mine. But my father told me several times, “Leave, leave, leave. The end will be very, very dramatic.” Still, I couldn’t bring myself to go. I had to take care of them.

But if you care, if you can leave, then do it. Russia is not a place to stay. If you have any sense, you’ll understand that.

Note from the author:

Hey there, Kate Tsurkan here, thanks for reading my latest interview. It’s horrific that in Russia you’re considered a criminal for calling out the actual criminals who are murdering innocent people, but thankfully we have people in this world like Ekaterina Barabash who are not afraid to call evil what it is. I hope her story inspires you and helps show that if a 64-year-old grandmother can stand up to authoritarianism in this world, then so can you. It you like reading about this sort of thing, please consider supporting The Kyiv Independent.

Decolonizing Russia — what it means and why it matters

Speaking to France’s National Assembly on April 11, Russian opposition leader Vladimir Kara-Murza did not petition Europe for the Kremlin’s total military defeat. Yet, while answering one of the many questions posed to him, he talked about how a colleague supposedly learned that ethnic Russians find it “psychologically difficult” to kill Ukrainians because they are so “similar.” “They say… we are alike, these are very closely related peoples, as everyone knows: almost the same language, the sa

The Kyiv IndependentKate Tsurkan

After spending about 3-4 months under constant Russian attacks, Jattashankar got used to it.

“I was mentally prepared when they [Russians] launched drones and ballistic missiles… You will see the drones here and there,” he said.

Jattashankar Sinha, born and raised in Ayodhya, India, lived in Ukraine for a year during the full-scale Russian invasion.

But as the war raged on, he decided to go back to his home country. Fleeing one war, Jattashankar stumbled upon escalation in his native land: new attacks between two long-standing nuclear-armed adversaries: India and Pakistan.

Today, Pakistan launched yet another attack on India. Now, news is breaking over the last few hours about how the two countries agreed to an immediate, but tenuous, ceasefire.

The recent escalation of the conflict between India and Pakistan was not merely a localized dispute. It represents a global threat as both nations possess nuclear capabilities and are standing on the brink of a full-scale war.

The conflict poses a risk to the arms supply chains to Ukraine. Although both countries officially maintain neutrality, their weapons indirectly end up on the battlefield in Ukraine. At a time when every source of military support is vital, Kyiv risks losing access to additional arms needed for its defense.

As the whole world was anxiously monitoring the escalation between two nuke-armed long-time rivals, the unpredictable and lightning-fast ceasefire calls into question the full resolution of the conflict and still does not provide clarity on the onset of stability in the South Asian region.

The Indian expat community in Ukraine remains significant despite the government’s ambiguous stance on Russia’s invasion. There are about 18,000 Indian students enrolled in universities in Kyiv, primarily pursuing degrees in medicine and engineering.

“Living and studying medicine in a war-torn Ukraine taught me resilience in the face of fear, unpredictability, and loss. I learned how to keep calm under pressure, to adapt quickly, and to stay focused on saving lives even when sirens were blaring outside. That experience prepared me mentally for what’s happening now in my own country, ” Jattashankar said.

Dr. Jattashankar Sinha is from Ayodhya, India. He came to Ukraine in 2017 to pursue a medical degree at the National Bohomolets University in Kyiv, as he hadn’t qualified for the entry exam in India. Several students from India consider Ukraine an option for education, as universities are cheaper here.

In Ukraine, medical education costs from $700 to $1,800 per year. In India, prices average $1,600 up to as much as $20,500 per year.

“Ukraine is in my list of favorite countries. It is so beautiful. Especially the West[ern] part of Ukraine,” Jattashankar said.

After the start of the full-scale invasion, Jatashankar went home to India, before returning in 2023 to spend another year in Ukraine.

Over the last couple of weeks, he was living with another conflict being at his doorstep. Last month, a group of militants opened fire on tourists in the Kashmir town of Pahalgam, killing at least 26 people. In response, India attacked Pakistan on May 7, launching the so-called Operation Sindoor. Pakistan called the aggression an “act of war” and retaliated.

Today, Pakistan struck Indian military targets as part of its “Operation Bunyan Marsus” against India, which India called a “blatant escalation”. India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced Pakistani attacks on civilians and infrastructure and denied Pakistan's claims that India's critical infrastructure had been hit.

“After the brutal Pahalgam attack, where so many innocent people, mostly tourists, lost their lives, emotions were already running high.... But seeing things escalate further missile strikes, civilian areas being threatened brings a sense of fear and frustration… No one wants more lives lost on either side of the border. We have seen enough pain already,” Jattashankar shared today with The Counteroffensive.

President Trump claimed that the U.S. mediated the ceasefire, but sources on both sides quickly poured cold water on that notion.

Officials from both India and Pakistan confirmed the ceasefire had been reached, but said that diplomats from three dozen countries were involved in the agreement. An Indian source noted that the ceasefire deal was negotiated directly between India and Pakistan, despite Trump’s announcement that the U.S. had mediated the talks.

India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that military actions on the ground and firing between countries will stop at 5 pm local time. The two nations will speak again on May 12. The deescalation is already moving forward, and Pakistan announced it would reopen its airspace to all commercial and military flights.

Indian defense officials held a news conference in New Delhi to confirm the agreement but added they would remain alert to defend their country if necessary.

Pakistan and India have been in conflict for 78 years over Kashmir, a region that lies between the two nations. The dispute began in 1947, after the partition of British India, which led to the creation of two independent states: a predominantly Hindu India and a predominantly Muslim Pakistan.

At the time, the ruler of Kashmir hesitated to join either country as the state had both Hindu and Muslim populations. The indecision ignited a territorial conflict that has been growing ever since.

Both countries officially claim the entire territory of Kashmir. A portion of it is also under Chinese control, although China has not claimed additional territory. China occupied the area in 1962 and has maintained control ever since. Prior to that, it was controlled by India, which continues to seek the territory back.

Jattashankar and his family live far from the conflict's epicenter and have remained calm. He said that he has “trust” in his army.

Ukraine has followed India’s footsteps and decided to remain neutral in the conflict between India and Pakistan, urging a “diplomatic solution to all contentious issues.”

“As an Indian, I view our country's approach to the Russia-Ukraine war as rooted in strategic autonomy. India has long followed a policy of non-alignment, and in today's multipolar world, that has evolved into maintaining strong relations with multiple powers without being drawn into blocs,” said Jattashankar.

Both Pakistan and India unofficially supply ammunition to the Ukrainian army.

Indian artillery ammunition may have reached Ukraine’s frontlines through European suppliers, such as Italy and the Czech Republic. These countries are leading the initiative to supply artillery shells to Kyiv from countries outside the European Union.

India officially denies the presence of its weapons in Ukraine. However, Russia, a close ally of India, has demanded that Delhi stop supplying weapons to Ukraine.

India probably faces the ongoing war in Ukraine and the rearmament of Europe as an opportunity to develop its defense sector.

Meanwhile, India is continuing to increase its cooperation with Russia. In 2024, it became Russia’s second-largest oil importer. The Russian military-industrial complex and the state’s budget depend on revenues from energy sales, as they account for 30 percent of government revenues.

This year, Russia and India signed their largest-ever oil supply agreement. Under this agreement, Moscow will supply Delhi nearly 500,000 barrels of crude oil daily for 10 years. Moreover, India remains the largest recipient of Russian arms exports, including the S-400 missile defense system.

“Prime Minister Modi's neutral stance, including his calls for diplomacy and dialogue, reflects India’s emphasis on peace and pragmatic engagement, especially given our deep economic and defense ties with both Russia and the West,” Jattashankar told The Counteroffensive. “Neutrality allows India to be a potential mediator and maintain its own interests without being entangled in distant wars. Our priorities lie in development, regional stability, and preserving strategic independence.”

The situation from the Pakistan side is even more prominent. After having reportedly supplied Ukraine and Israel with ammunition for the past years, it is now struggling with a shortage of artillery as conflict with India looms as a possibility.

In August 2022, journalists spotted a British Air Force plane making 12 trips between a military base in Pakistan and an international airport in Romania. It was allegedly transporting artillery shells of Pakistani origin to Ukraine.

The Counteroffensive asked the State Customs Service of Ukraine about the import of weapons of Indian and Pakistani origin. We have not received a response.

While Ukraine is worried about the cessation of critical ammunition, an even bigger problem is brewing in the world: the possibility of a full-scale war between two nuclear countries rose over the last weeks and the ground of ceasefire agreement is still not clear.

“Personally, I didn't get flashbacks [of Russia’s war in Ukraine] from our own regional tensions when the war escalated, but it did highlight how quickly conflicts can escalate and the importance of diplomacy, especially in nuclear-armed regions like ours,” Jattashankar noted.

Even though Jattashankar's family is far from the conflict, his friend and mentor at a university in India is witnessing a different reality.

Dr. Paras Singh Jamwal was born and raised in Jammu, Kashmir. Paras’ parents are safe after the recent air combat in their native region, but Paras remembers the phone conversation with them that night: the explosions were thunderous.

“Last night I was talking to my parents. Whole night sirens were blowing, and also the whole night there were all bombarding happening, so there was a lot of noise around my home”, Paras said after the recent battle between India and Pakistan.

Kashmir and its citizens have long been prepared for a war scenario, and Paras said he witnessed several confrontations as a child.

“Growing up in a place where life was always under threat from terrorism was never easy. The constant fear became a part of everyday life…Those memories stay and they are not good for mental health,” said Paras.

As we talked to Jattashankar about today’s attacks, he said that Paras’ family who lives in Jammu is safe and okay.

It is not the first time in recent years that a full-scale war has loomed between the two nations. In 2019, a car packed with explosives rammed into a bus carrying Indian police officers, killing 40. In response, India launched an airstrike on a suspected militant camp in Pakistan, triggering a new wave of clashes.

“As for nuclear rhetoric, yes, I believe any normalization of nuclear threats, however subtle, is extremely dangerous. If powerful nations begin to use nuclear blackmail more openly, it sets a troubling precedent. It could embolden others to consider such tactics, which would erode global norms and increase the risk of catastrophic miscalculations,” said Jattashankar.

India has about 180 nuclear warheads in its stockpile, while it is estimated that Pakistan has approximately the same number. Neither of the countries have officially disclosed the number of nuclear weapons they possess.

“My hopes for the future are that everything will settle down, because war is never a good thing…because in the end, people have to suffer,” said Paras, who plans to return to his native Jammu after completing his studies. “Let’s hope for humanity and let’s be human. Always.”

The world has entered a new stage of uncertainty, where large-scale war is no longer off the table. Since Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea more than a decade ago, the costs of conflict seem to have been diminished.

And in a world where war is not deterred, one miscalculation can turn into a global conflagration.

NEWS OF THE DAY:

INDIA AND PAKISTAN AGREE ON TRUCE: India and Pakistan have confirmed a ceasefire agreement following weeks of escalating clashes, missile exchanges, and drone strikes along their shared border over the long-disputed Kashmir region.

President Trump claimed that the U.S. was behind the ceasefire on his Truth Social platform Saturday. Although some diplomatic figures have mentioned that role played by the State Department, reporting is emerging that dozens of countries were involved — and that the deal ultimately came as a result of direct negotiations between the parties.

ALLIES PLAN SANCTIONS AGAINST RUSSIA: The U.S., the EU, and the U.K. are threatening additional sanctions against Russia if it refuses to accept a U.S.-led proposal for a 30-day ceasefire with Ukraine.

The warnings come as European leaders visit President Zelenskyy in Kyiv to demonstrate solidarity with Ukraine, after the leaders of China and Brazil traveled to Russia this week to attend Moscow’s Victory Day parade.

Ukraine has agreed to the proposed 30-day ceasefire, but President Putin has so far declined to support it. Kremlin press secretary Dmitry Peskov said Western delivery of arms to Ukraine should stop before agreeing to a ceasefire.

EU, UKRAINE ENDORSE WAR CRIMES TRIBUNAL: Ukraine and 35 European countries have endorsed the establishment of a special tribunal to prosecute Russia for its "crimes of aggression" against Ukraine.

“This means no one will escape accountability for the crimes committed—not even the [Russian] leaders who made the decision to send troops here to commit war crimes and atrocities we have witnessed,” said Kaja Kallas, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs.

The newly proposed tribunal would have the authority to pursue Russia over its decision to invade Ukraine, though it could only arrest Putin once he leaves office, due to the immunity granted to sitting presidents, prime ministers, and foreign ministers.

DOG OF WAR:

Today’s Dog of War is this doggie Nastia met in Ukraine’s western city of Chernivtsi, who was relaxing in a distinguished pose by the side of the street.

Stay safe out there.

Best,
Clara

India and Pakistan have agreed to “a full and immediate ceasefire,” U.S. President Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social on May 10.

“Congratulations to both countries on using common Sense and great intelligence. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” Trump wrote.

The announcement follows mounting fears that the two nuclear-armed countries were on the brink of engaging in another full-scale war. The latest escalation in tensions between the two nations began in April.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a post on X that he and U.S. Vice President JD Vance had been in contact with both sides over the past 48 hours in a bid to halt the fighting.

India confirmed that a ceasefire had been agreed upon, with the Foreign Ministry spokesperson briefly saying during a press conference on May 10, “It was agreed between them that both sides would stop all fighting and military action on land and in the air and sea with effect from 17:00 Indian standard time today."

Pakistan also confirmed the news, with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar writing on X on May 10 that his country “has always strived for peace and security in the region, without compromising on its sovereignty and territorial integrity."

The news of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan comes amid reports that Trump is increasingly frustrated behind the scenes that he hasn’t been able to achieve lasting peace deals between Russia and Ukraine or Israel and Palestine.

Trump on May 8 called for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, warning that Washington and its allies would impose further sanctions on Moscow if the truce were violated.

Zelensky, European leaders hold ‘productive’ call with Trump about peace talks

“Ukraine and all allies are ready for a complete unconditional ceasefire on land, in the air, and at sea for at least 30 days, starting as early as Monday,” Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha wrote.

The Kyiv IndependentThe Kyiv Independent news desk

Iran is reportedly preparing to supply Russia with Fath 360 short-range tactical ballistic missiles, with the systems expected to be dispatched soon. This anticipated development marks a significant escalation in military cooperation between the two nations, Army Recognition reports.

Western intelligence indicates that Iran has already provided the Russian military with thousands of drones, including "Shahed" loitering munitions and artillery shells. The potential supply of Fath 360 tactical ballistic missiles significantly bolsters the arsenal of Iran's lethal aid supporting the Russian Armed Forces.

U.S. General Christopher Cavoli previously testified before Congress about Iran’s transfer of over 400 short-range ballistic missiles to Russia. While the specific types were not disclosed, sources now suggest that Fath 360 is among these systems, either supplied already or slated for rapid deployment.

The Fath 360 ballistic missile is a high-speed, short-range tactical system developed by Iran’s Aerospace Industries Organization, first unveiled in 2022. It represents a leap in Iran's category of short-range ballistic missiles, being smaller, faster, and more precise compared to earlier models like the Fateh-110.

With a maximum range of 120 km and a warhead weighing up to 150 kg, the missile is designed for rapid deployment and precision targeting on the battlefield. Fath 360’s solid-fuel engine reduces preparation time compared to liquid-fueled missiles and employs satellite navigation systems (GNSS) for course correction, enhancing accuracy against tactical targets such as artillery positions and command centers.

The modular Fath 360 system is adaptable for rapid deployment from specialized wheeled platforms or modified commercial trucks, increasing its survivability, especially amidst counter-battery and anti-missile systems' consistent operations in Ukraine.

Russia potentially deploys Fath 360 for precise strikes on Ukrainian frontline positions without extended preparations or the risks associated with heavier systems like the Iskander-M. Its mobility and swift response could establish it as the optimal weapon for Russian rapid strike and relocation tactics, particularly amid dynamic frontline conditions in Eastern and Southern Ukraine.

Analysts suggest the system could prove particularly effective during Russian offensive operations through densely fortified Ukrainian defenses. The launchers’ relatively small size and operational simplicity mean these missiles can evade air reconnaissance and satellite surveillance more successfully than Russia’s hulking ballistic systems.

Furthermore, the Fath-360 acquisition might alleviate pressure on Russia’s dwindling stock of its own ballistic missiles, many of which have seen extensive use in strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure since the war began.

"This anticipated delivery is more than mere arms transfer; it underscores Iran’s escalating involvement in the Ukrainian conflict," the article notes. "Besides supplying the weaponry, Iran has also trained Russian personnel on these missile systems."

This comes as Germany, according to media reports, is set to classify future military aid packages for Ukraine as secret.

Ukraine and its European allies are demanding that Russia agree to an unconditional 30-day ceasefire starting on May 12, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on May 10 during a press conference in Kyiv.

The demand for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire was the main outcome from talks between Ukraine, France, the U.K., Germany and Poland, according to Zelensky.

French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk arrived in Kyiv on May 10 as a show of support for Ukraine amid growing calls for Russia to agree to a ceasefire.

“We agreed that a full and unconditional ceasefire must begin on Monday, May 12, for at least 30 days. We jointly demand this from Russia, and we know we are supported in this by the United States,” Zelensky said, as reported by a correspondent from European Pravda.

“The ceasefire must be comprehensive — in the air, at sea, and on land. Monitoring the ceasefire is entirely feasible in coordination with the United States. This is a realistic goal."

Ahead of the press conference, the five leaders held a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said the call was “productive,” adding that all allies are ready for a complete unconditional ceasefire on land, in the air, and at sea for at least 30 days, starting as early as Monday.

The ceasefire would allow all parties to focus on defining the security, political, and humanitarian foundations of a lasting peace deal, according to Zelensky.

Zelensky and European leaders said during the press conference that the threat of tougher sanctions could help not only to pressure Russia into agreeing to an unconditional ceasefire, but also serve as a deterrent against any potential ceasefire violations.

“If Russia refuses an unconditional and complete ceasefire, sanctions must be applied —  strengthened sanctions against its energy sector and banking system,” Zelensky said.

Tusk confirmed that if Russia “takes the proposal lightly,” then it would be met with “a new wave of sanctions,” stressing that coordination with the U.S. was key to achieving an effective approach to peace talks.

Amid reported growing frustration with a lack of a peace deal, Trump called for an “unconditional” 30-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine on May 8, adding that “if the ceasefire is not respected, the U.S. and its partners will impose further sanctions (against Russia)."

So far, Russia has only proposed partial ceasefires during the Easter holiday and Victory Day celebrations, which Zelensky has dismissed as “theatrical” given the ongoing attacks reported by Ukrainian soldiers along the front line.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told ABC News on May 10 that Russia rejected a 30-day ceasefire because it would be to Kyiv’s “advantage."

Zelensky, European leaders hold ‘productive’ call with Trump about peace talks

“Ukraine and all allies are ready for a complete unconditional ceasefire on land, in the air, and at sea for at least 30 days, starting as early as Monday,” Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha wrote.

The Kyiv IndependentThe Kyiv Independent news desk

Ukraine is ready for a complete ceasefire lasting 30 days, starting Monday, May 12, announced Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, adding that the agreed position between the EU countries and Ukraine had been discussed with the U.S. President, Donald Trump. The Foreign Minister released a photo featuring the leaders of France, Germany, Poland, and Ukraine during a phone call with President Trump about a coordinated ceasefire plan. Sybiha stated that following the meeting of the "coalition of the willing," a conversation with the U.S. President took place. Consequently, Ukraine and its allies confirmed their "readiness for an unconditional cessation of hostilities on land, in the air, and at sea for at least 30 days."

"If Russia agrees, and effective monitoring is ensured, a permanent truce and confidence-building measures could pave the way for peace talks," stated Ukraine's Foreign Minister.

In Russia, Dmitry Medvedev responded to the proposal for a ceasefire. In his post on X, Medvedev criticized the idea from the U.S., EU, and Ukraine. He believes the proposal seems like "a truce to give Banderite hordes a breather, or new sanctions."

"Do you think this is reasonable, huh? Stick these peace plans up your pangender asses!" the Russian official wrote.

Earlier, it was reported that Trump was urging Putin and Zelensky to end the war. He noted that this was his message to the leaders of both countries. Subsequently, it was noted that the U.S. President acknowledged the impossibility of quickly ending the war in Ukraine due to Russia's leader, Vladimir Putin. Trump admitted a growing "frustration that keeps him up at night" due to delays in talks from the Russian side and the inability to immediately bring both parties to the negotiating table.