Russia conducted a significant missile and drone assault on Ukraine overnight, coinciding with ongoing talks between U.S. and Ukrainian officials to seek an end to the long-standing conflict. The latest series of attacks occurred as President Donald Trump’s advisors and Ukrainian representatives arranged to convene on Saturday, making headway in establishing a security framework for a postwar Ukraine. Both parties emphasized that genuine progress towards a resolution hinged on Russia’s commitment to long-term peace.
The joint statement issued by U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, Rustem Umerov, and Andriy Hnatov highlighted the constructive discussions held in Florida, spearheaded by Trump’s efforts to broker a peace deal between Kyiv and Moscow. Russian President Vladimir Putin, however, voiced objections to certain elements of a U.S. peace plan, indicating challenges in reaching a comprehensive agreement.
During the assault, Russia deployed 653 drones and launched 51 missiles on various Ukrainian targets, triggering air raid alerts countrywide. Ukrainian forces successfully intercepted and neutralized 585 drones and 30 missiles, with 29 locations sustaining damage. The attacks resulted in at least eight individuals sustaining injuries, including three in the Kyiv region.
Furthermore, Russia targeted power stations and energy infrastructure across multiple Ukrainian regions in a massive missile-drone offensive. Notably, the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant experienced a temporary power outage, raising concerns about the safety of its reactors and fuel storage. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attacks on energy facilities and highlighted the destruction caused by a drone strike in Fastiv.
In response to the hostilities, European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, announced plans to convene in London to address the escalating situation in Ukraine and support ongoing diplomatic efforts mediated by the United States. Macron reaffirmed unwavering support for Ukraine and emphasized the critical role of providing security guarantees for lasting peace in the region.