Why This Article Was Fact-Checked
Some readers flagged this article due to confusion over contradictory narratives—specifically, how simultaneous calls for peace talks by both Ukraine and Russia appear to coincide with increased drone and missile attacks across borders. We reviewed the claims for accuracy, context, and neutrality to help clarify what’s really happening.
Understanding the Geopolitical Landscape
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, originally expecting swift control. However, fierce Ukrainian resistance, Western sanctions, and international support led to a prolonged conflict. A patchwork of ceasefires and negotiation attempts have been brokered over the years, often disrupted by battlefield escalations. As of mid-2025, peace talks facilitated by the U.S. and European nations show limited progress amid continuing military operations by both sides.
Evaluating the Key Claims
Claim #1: “At least 10 Ukrainian drones were downed en route to Moscow, part of 67 total shot down overnight.”
This claim is consistent with reports from both Russian state media and defense channels, including RIA Novosti and the Russian Ministry of Defense. However, confirming the exact numbers independently is difficult due to information control on both sides. The number of drones (67) corresponds to what Russia classifies as “hostile UAVs,” not limited to Moscow-bound ones. Ukraine typically does not comment on drone operations inside Russian borders. Therefore, while plausible, the numbers are solely based on Russian reporting.
Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russia-drones-attacks/32913650.html
Claim #2: “The Azot chemical plant attacked in the Tula region produces explosives used in military applications like TNT.”
Andriy Kovalenko’s assertion that the Azot facility manufactures TNT is partly supported by open-source intelligence and past reporting. The plant, managed by the EuroChem group, does produce industrial chemicals used in both civilian and military contexts. However, EuroChem in past statements has denied direct involvement in explosive weapons manufacturing. Kovalenko’s framing connects the facility to military logistics, but readers should recognize that this perspective serves Ukrainian strategic messaging aimed at justifying retaliatory actions.
Source: https://www.icis.com/explore/resources/news/2023/04/17/10875779/explosion-at-eurochem-plant-in-russia-s-tula-region/
Claim #3: “Both sides are escalating long-range strike operations while participating in U.S.-brokered peace talks.”
This statement, while seemingly contradictory, is factually accurate. Multiple credible sources confirm that even as peace talks are being facilitated by the U.S. and EU since early 2025, coordinated military escalations continue. This reflects a historical pattern seen in international conflicts where parties strengthen their battlefield position to gain leverage at the negotiating table. The New York Times and the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace have both documented how warfare often intensifies during negotiation periods.
Sources:
https://carnegieendowment.org/2023/11/10/peace-talks-and-war-escalation-in-ukraine-pub-91446
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/01/world/europe/ukraine-russia-peace-talks.html
Claim #4: “Zelenskyy said Russia’s strikes prove that Putin is not serious about a negotiated peace.”
This is a subjective interpretation tied to political rhetoric. Zelenskyy’s statements reflect Ukraine’s strategic communication objectives—pressuring Western allies for more support while delegitimizing Russian negotiating intent. Experts from the Institute for the Study of War affirm that Russia has used shifts in military pressure as a negotiation tactic. While Zelenskyy paints Putin as insincere, Russia attempts to frame Ukraine’s cross-border attacks similarly. Both narratives serve propagandist objectives rather than evidence-based assessments.
Source: https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-june-7-2025
Conclusion: Escalation Amid Negotiation Signals Need for Caution
The article provides mostly accurate reporting of ongoing military developments based on available information, but it lacks contextual balance. It leans more heavily into Ukraine’s framing—especially regarding Russia’s sincerity in peace efforts—without equally presenting Russia’s counterclaims. Claims about the drone numbers and chemical plant are reasonably consistent with external verification, though some rely on state-issued data. Overall, the piece is informative but would benefit from including a broader range of perspectives, especially from independent observers.
Stay Empowered Against Misinformation
Misinformation thrives in emotionally charged geopolitical conflicts. Stay ahead by using DBUNK to verify trending news and explore context that headlines miss. Download the DBUNK app today or follow us on social media to stay informed.
Read the Original Article
Visit: ABC News Original Article
