**Rainy Belgorod Forests Hide Ukraine’s Elite Forces from Russian Drones**
In the midst of a record 273 drone attacks by Russia, Ukraine’s elite forces have managed to remain undetected in the rainy and haunting Belgorad forests. Despite the intense aerial bombardment, thermal drones have been unable to pinpoint the location of Ukrainian troops, hidden as they are behind the stormy weather and dense foliage.
The attack on May 18 saw a 28-year-old woman killed and three others injured in Kyiv Oblast. The assault also caused significant damage to civilian infrastructure across several regions. In contrast, Ukraine’s elite forces have remained one step ahead of their Russian counterparts, using the Belgorad forests as a temporary sanctuary.
**Ukraine’s Female Helicopter Pilot: A Symbol of Strength**
Katya, Ukraine’s only female helicopter pilot, has been flying combat missions since September 2024. Her blonde hair may catch attention, but it is her bravery and skill that make her a true hero. With over 30 successful missions under her belt, Katya embodies the spirit of Ukrainian resistance.
**Russian Military Losses Continue to Mount**
As of May 17, Russia’s military losses stand at an alarming rate:
* Personnel: 973,730
* Tanks: 10,832
* Armored personnel vehicles: 22,557
* Artillery systems: 27,980
* Multiple launch rocket systems: 1,386
* Anti-aircraft systems: 1,167
* Aircraft: 372
* Helicopters: 336
* Unmanned aerial vehicles: 36,385
* Cruise missiles: 3,197
* Warships and boats: 28
* Submarines: 1
* Vehicles and fuel tanks: 48,900
* Special equipment: 3,892
**Putin’s Nuclear Show-Off**
Ukraine’s intelligence agency reports that Russia plans to test-fire a nuclear-capable missile tonight as a pressure tactic on the West. The launch is expected to take place from Sverdlovsk Oblast and has been deemed a stunt by Kyiv.
**France Offers Ukraine a Glimmer of Hope**
A new laser rifle, HELMA-LP, has been unveiled by France, capable of disabling electronic targets at a range of 500 meters. This stealthy tool could prove invaluable to Ukrainian infantry in the fight against Russian forces.
**The Trump-Putin Call: A High-Stakes Gamble**
As President Trump prepares to speak with Putin on Monday, Europe’s leaders are bracing themselves for the potential fallout. The call comes as Ukraine struggles to receive support from its international partners, with former Lithuanian minister Gabrielius Landsbergis publicly criticizing the EU coalition’s failure to provide troops and air defense systems.
**A Tribute to Ukrainian Culture**
Angelina Jolie honored Ukrainian writer Victoria Amelina at the Cannes Film Festival, highlighting the importance of artistic freedom. The event was marked by a poignant moment when Bono, Edge, and Sean Penn walked the red carpet alongside Ukrainian soldiers, receiving a standing ovation for their film “Stories of Surrender.”
