KYIV, Ukraine – Russia launched a significant missile and drone attack on Ukraine overnight, hitting numerous locations across the country. This came as U.S. and Ukrainian officials gathered for a third day of talks aimed at resolving the nearly four-year-long conflict.
The discussions have made some headway on a security framework for Ukraine’s future. However, both sides remain cautious, emphasizing that any meaningful progress hinges on Russia’s commitment to peace.
U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff, along with Jared Kushner and Ukrainian negotiators Rustem Umerov and Andriy Hnatov, reported this after meeting in Florida. They spoke of some advancement but did not disclose specifics, reflecting the delicate nature of the negotiations.
In a dramatic show of force, Russia deployed 653 drones and 51 missiles in its latest attack, prompting air alerts nationwide. Ukraine’s air force reported successfully intercepting 585 drones and 30 missiles. Despite these defenses, eight individuals were injured, with three in the Kyiv region alone.
Among the primary targets were energy facilities. The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant briefly lost all external power, according to Rafael Mariano Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency. While the plant is currently out of service, it still requires power to ensure the safety of its spent fuel and prevent potential nuclear incidents.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attack on energy infrastructure, highlighting damage to the train station in Fastiv due to a drone strike. Meanwhile, Russia claimed to have shot down 116 Ukrainian drones over its territory.
In retaliation, Ukrainian forces reportedly targeted Russia’s Ryazan Oil Refinery, causing significant damage. This reflects a broader strategy, as Ukraine aims to weaken Russia’s oil export revenues crucial for sustaining the war effort. Many analysts believe that these strikes are part of Ukraine’s approach to counteract Russia’s attempts to undermine its energy supply for civilians during the winter months.
Despite the ongoing conflict, discussions about establishing a security framework have continued. Zelenskyy is scheduled to meet with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday to discuss ongoing negotiations for a postwar security strategy. Experts believe that strong international support will be essential in ensuring Ukraine’s security as it emerges from the devastation of war.
As the situation evolves, the world watches closely, hoping for a diplomatic resolution while understanding the profound challenges that lie ahead. For more updates, follow AP’s coverage of the war in Ukraine at AP News.
Source link
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, General news, Military technology, Steve Witkoff, Ukraine, Jared Kushner, Drone surveillance and warfare, Keir Starmer, Andriy Hnatov, Rafael Grossi, Drones, War and unrest, Russia-Ukraine war, AP Top News, Russia Ukraine war, Ukraine government, World news, Pavel Malkov, Donald Trump, United States government
