

New ‘Frankenstein’ missile terrorises Ukraine & ceasefire talks to start 'immediately', Trump says
May 20, 2025
Iona Cleave, a Foreign breaking news reporter at The Telegraph, discusses the chilling impact of Russia's new ‘Frankenstein’ missile and its tactical use against Ukraine. Kenza Rharmaoui, a senior researcher at Truth Hounds, highlights ongoing investigations into war crimes, including targeted strikes on hotels housing journalists. Swedish Lieutenant General Karl Johan Erdström underscores the heightened threat from Russia, especially near Finland. Together, they unpack the complex dynamics of current negotiations and the challenges of safeguarding independent journalism in this tumultuous landscape.
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Putin-Trump Call Lacks Progress
- Putin and Trump had a two-hour call with no meaningful outcome or ceasefire progress.
- Russia insists on its conditions, showing no genuine desire to stop fighting.
Frankenstein Missile Exposes Sanction Gaps
- Russia's new Frankenstein missile is cheaply made from foreign off-the-shelf parts.
- It exploits sanction loopholes using components from many countries, complicating arms control.
Motorbikes as Russian Shock Troops
- Russia uses motorbike shock troops to rapidly probe heavily mined frontlines despite heavy casualties.
- This tactic wastes Ukrainian resources but reflects Russia's lack of armored vehicles.