NEW: Russian forces conducted a massive drone and missile strike consisting of 666 drones and missiles against Ukraine overnight on April 24 into April 25, primarily targeting Dnipro City, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, killing at least six civilians and injuring at least 47.
Other Key Takeaways:
Ukrainian forces may have conducted drone strikes against Yekaterinburg, Sverdlovsk Oblast and Chelyabinsk City — around 1,600 to 1,700 kilometers from the international border.
A prominent, Kremlin-coopted Russian ultranationalist milblogger has begun socializing the idea that Russians should prepare for possible future limited, rolling reserve call-ups to bolster Russia’s force generation mechanisms.
Ukrainian forces advanced in the Kostyantynivka-Druzhkivka tactical area and Russian forces advanced in the Pokrovsk direction.
— Institute for the Study of War (@TheStudyofWar) Apr 25, 2026
Summary
In a massive shift, Vladimir Putin has reportedly announced the end of Russia’s special military operation and may be open to a peace deal with U.S. security guarantees. Meanwhile, President Zelenskyy is in Baku meeting with President Aliyev to discuss joint weapons production and regional stability.
Key Stories
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Putin announces end of special military operation — The Russian leader made a sudden statement ending the military campaign and is reportedly considering a peace agreement that includes security guarantees for Ukraine.
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Zelenskyy lands in Baku for historic visit — President Zelenskyy arrived in Azerbaijan for his first-ever visit to the country, resulting in six new partnership agreements and talks about a potential face-to-face meeting with Putin.
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Azerbaijan and Ukraine talk joint weapons production — President Aliyev reaffirmed his support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity and proposed that both nations team up to manufacture military equipment together.
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Baku emerges as key diplomatic bridge — With Zelenskyy visiting and peace talks on the table, Azerbaijan is positioning itself as a major mediator in the conflict, marking a significant shift in regional politics.
Azərbaycanın xalq şairi Səməd Vurğunun ibrətamiz sözləri pic.
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Rusya Federasyon Konseyi: “Eğer resmi Bakü, tüm katılımcıların güvenliğini sağlarsa, Rusya; ABD ve Ukrayna ile Azerbaycan’da üçlü görüşmeler yapmaya hazırdır.” pic.
Ukraine is ready to hold trilateral talks with the U.S. and Russia in Azerbaijan Volodymyr Zelensky announced this during a meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. pic.
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