At least one person was killed and 15 wounded in Russian attacks on Kyiv and Kharkiv, while sticking points over the Donbas region persisted in peace negotiations. The strikes on residential areas highlighted the challenges facing diplomats as violence and dialogue continued simultaneously.
Mayor Vitali Klitschko alerted Kyiv residents via social media that the capital was “under a massive enemy attack,” instructing people to seek shelter. The strikes hit residential buildings, resulting in casualties and widespread property damage. Essential services including heat and water were knocked offline in parts of the city.
In Kharkiv, Iranian-made Shahed drones attacked several residential complexes, as confirmed by Mayor Igor Terekhov. The drone strikes caused significant damage to civilian infrastructure, demonstrating Russia’s continued use of Iranian military technology. The city has faced repeated bombardment due to its proximity to Russian-controlled territory.
Despite the violence, diplomatic discussions proceeded in Abu Dhabi where American, Russian, and Ukrainian representatives convened for two-day talks. The UAE foreign ministry stated the negotiations were focused on “promoting dialogue and identifying political solutions to the crisis.” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov made clear that Ukrainian armed forces must withdraw from the Donbas, highlighting the central territorial dispute.
Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed measured optimism following his meeting with President Trump, suggesting that peace proposals were “nearly ready” despite ongoing disagreements. He proposed creating a free trade zone in eastern Ukraine under Kyiv’s control. President Putin engaged separately with Trump’s envoys, as all parties continued weekend discussions.
Russia Strikes Ukraine: Sticking Points Remain as Violence and Dialogue Continue
