**Russia’s Drone Assault on Ukraine Results in 15 Injuries**
In a significant escalation of the conflict, Russia launched a massive drone assault on Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, Cherkasy, and Kharkiv. According to reports, Russia used 165 drones, with Ukraine’s Air Force confirming the downing of 69 drones. The attack resulted in 15 injuries.
**Ukraine Launches Largest Drone and Missile Raid in Months**
In response, Ukraine launched its largest drone and missile raid in months, targeting areas behind Russian front lines on May 3. Hundreds of Ukrainian drones and missiles were deployed, with reports of two Russian jets being downed.
**Drone Strikes Hit Key Infrastructure Targets**
The drone attacks also hit key infrastructure targets, including a plant producing parts for the aerospace and military industry in Bryansk Oblast. The Strela Electrotechnical Plant was destroyed, leaving significant damage to its administrative and production buildings.
**Russian “Island Tactics” Turn into Suicide Missions**
In another development, Russian forces have been using “island tactics,” where they cross rivers only to be targeted by Ukrainian forces, resulting in heavy casualties. This strategy has turned into a suicide mission for many Russian troops.
**Ukraine Calls for 30-Day Ceasefire as Russia Muses on Reconciliation**
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for a 30-day ceasefire, while Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has expressed his willingness to engage in reconciliation talks. However, Ukraine views Russia’s three-day ceasefire offer as nothing more than a stunt.
**Latest Losses of Russian Armed Forces**
As of May 4, the approximate losses of Russian military equipment and personnel since the beginning of the invasion are:
* Personnel: 956,810
* Tanks: 10,758
* Artillery systems: 27,327
* MLRS: 1,376
* Anti-aircraft systems: 1,155
* Aircraft: 372
* Helicopters: 335
* UAV: 34,860
* Cruise missiles: 3,196
**Ukraine Scaling Up Defense Output**
In a bid to maintain momentum, Ukraine is scaling up its defense output, integrating international arms makers, and advancing drone warfare. France has also increased its production of Hammer bombs for Ukraine by nearly 40%.
**International Developments**
Romania’s presidential election campaign has taken an anti-Ukraine turn, with candidate George Simion using social media to appeal to nationalist sentiments. Meanwhile, US President Trump has expressed his willingness to end the conflict, but his views are met with skepticism.
**Humanitarian and Social Impact**
The ongoing conflict continues to take a heavy toll on civilians, with Ukrainian forces launching strikes on Russian positions. A fire station in Kupiansk was targeted by Russian forces, but the Ukrainian flag still flies over the rubble.
**New Developments**
Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán-backed referendum on Ukraine’s EU accession is underway, while Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has authored a foreword to a book accusing Lithuania of historical falsification and Russophobia.
