Russia and Ukraine Exchange Drone Strikes as Xi Jinping Visits Moscow

On May 6-7, 2025, Russia launched multiple drone attacks on Kyiv causing civilian casualties and fires, while Ukraine’s drone strikes forced Moscow airport closures ahead of Victory Day celebrations attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping. Ukrainian forces also reported fighting in Russia’s Kursk region. Diplomatic tensions rose with former US President Joe Biden criticizing Donald Trump’s Russia policies, as the EU announced plans for new sanctions and the US approved increased military aid to Ukraine.

Background & Context

The Russia Ukraine war began with Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 and escalated significantly with the full-scale invasion in 2022, featuring extensive military offensives including missile and drone attacks causing severe civilian casualties and widespread infrastructure damage. The conflict has drawn major global powers into the fray, with the United States and European allies providing substantial military and economic support to Ukraine, while China and North Korea have deepened their strategic ties with Russia, offering military aid and expanding logistical support. These developments have contributed to a complex geopolitical conflict marked by intense sanctions, ongoing peace talks with uncertain prospects, and continuous shifts in military dynamics.

Diplomatic efforts remain fragile, with repeated ceasefire proposals from Russia often viewed by Ukraine as manipulative and inadequate. The United States has largely transitioned to a watchful mediation role, awaiting initiative from the conflict parties, while economic and military cooperation frameworks—such as the landmark US-Ukraine minerals deal—are increasingly significant in supporting Ukraine’s resilience. North Korea’s overt military involvement further complicates the diplomatic landscape, adding new challenges to international efforts. Public sentiment in Ukraine remains entrenched in resilience and calls for stronger international support amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Meanwhile, Russia NATO tensions continue to influence the broader regional and global security environment.

Key Developments & Timeline

May 4, 2025: Russia launches drone attacks on multiple Ukrainian cities, including Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia, resulting in at least 46 and 29 injuries respectively, alongside extensive infrastructure damage. These persistent Russian airstrikes contribute significantly to the civilian humanitarian crisis.
May 5, 2025: The United States and Ukraine sign a historic minerals deal aimed at funding Ukraine’s reconstruction and fostering economic cooperation. This agreement also provides the US preferential access to Ukraine’s vital critical mineral resources, supporting global green energy initiatives.
May 6, 2025: Ukrainian forces carry out a mass drone attack on Moscow, prompting the closure of several airports ahead of Victory Day celebrations, including those attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping. Ukrainian defenses report shooting down 69 of 165 incoming Russian drones and launching drone strikes into Russia’s Kursk region, marking active cross-border engagements.
May 7, 2025: Xi Jinping visits Russia for Victory Day celebrations, symbolizing the growing Russia-China alliance amid the ongoing conflict. Concurrently, geopolitical perspectives shift as former US President Joe Biden criticizes Donald Trump’s policies toward Russia, labeling them as “modern-day appeasement,” and the European Union announces plans to ban new Russian gas deals by 2025.
Ongoing: North Korea and Russia begin construction of their first road bridge over the Tumen River, strengthening bilateral ties and military logistics. Additionally, the US approves a $310 million F-16 training and support package for Ukraine. Despite ongoing peace talks, diplomatic tensions remain high as military operations and sanctions intensify.

The Russia Ukraine war continues at a high threat level marked by relentless missile and drone attacks causing severe civilian harm and infrastructure damage in key regions like Kharkiv and Kyiv. The historic US-Ukraine minerals agreement underscores a strategic effort to reinforce Ukraine’s economic resilience. Meanwhile, the Russia-China alliance is reinforced through high-profile diplomatic visits and joint infrastructure projects, contributing to growing Russia NATO tensions. Advanced drone warfare, including Ukrainian strikes deep into Russian territory, highlights evolving military tactics. Concerns about nuclear escalation remain prominent, with critical questions such as will Russia use nuclear weapons in Ukraine guiding international security discourse amidst this protracted geopolitical conflict.

Official Statements & Analysis

The Russia Ukraine war continues with sustained military intensity and complex international dynamics as of early May 2025. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned Russian targeting of civilians, stating, “There were no military targets; Russia strikes dwellings when Ukrainians are in their homes,” underscoring the grave humanitarian impact. Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted 69 of 165 drones launched by Russia overnight, reflecting improved defensive capabilities amid persistent aerial threats. Russia’s aggression extended to drone attacks on Kyiv and other cities, while Ukraine launched strikes near Moscow, forcing airport closures ahead of Victory Day celebrations.

Diplomatic developments are marked by Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Russia to advance the Russia-China partnership, reflecting shifting geopolitical alliances. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized that “the balls are clearly in the Russian court now,” highlighting Russia’s responsibility to pursue peace. Former US President Joe Biden criticized Donald Trump’s Russia policy as “modern-day appeasement,” denying claims that Putin seeks peace while questioning Moscow’s intentions. Meanwhile, the EU plans to ban new Russian gas deals by the end of 2025, intensifying economic pressure.

Additional pressures include North Korea’s troop deployments supporting Russia, which South Korea denounced as a grave violation of international norms, while the US approved a $310 million F-16 training package for Ukraine, signaling ongoing military support. These developments reflect a complex interplay of sustained combat operations, strategic resource competition, information warfare, and evolving international alliances—factors that continue to shape the conflict’s trajectory and regional security amid escalating Russia NATO tensions.

Conclusion

The Russia Ukraine war continues as a high-intensity conflict with persistent drone attacks targeting both Kyiv and Moscow, resulting in significant civilian casualties and infrastructure damage. Diplomatic developments, including China’s growing ties with Russia and increased Western sanctions, highlight the deepening geopolitical complexities shaping the war. Ukraine’s strengthened international support, notably the landmark US minerals deal and military aid, may influence future power dynamics, yet territorial disputes and ongoing hostilities suggest a protracted conflict. The path forward depends on sustained global pressure, effective diplomatic negotiations, and enhanced security measures to mitigate humanitarian suffering and regional instability.

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