Russia has launched over 460 drones into Ukraine, resulting in the deaths of at least six people and injuring thirteen others. This attack occurred while officials were discussing a proposed peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing conflict. The strike primarily targeted the capital, Kyiv, and surrounding regions, causing significant damage to residential buildings and critical infrastructure.
The latest assault coincided with a meeting in Abu Dhabi, where Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll engaged with Russian officials regarding a 28-point peace proposal submitted by President Donald Trump the previous week. The plan has sparked considerable debate among political leaders both domestically and internationally.
French President Emmanuel Macron condemned Russia’s actions, stating that the country, under the influence of President Vladimir Putin, is the primary obstacle to achieving peace. He expressed support for the peace proposal but underscored the need for improvements, remarking, “We want peace, but we don’t want a peace that is, in fact, a capitulation.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized the drone assault, asserting that Russia must face continuous pressure as diplomatic efforts progress. “The main Russian attack overnight targeted the capital and the region, causing extensive damage to residential buildings and civilian infrastructure across the city,” Zelensky reported. He highlighted that some of the drones had traversed into Romanian and Moldovan airspace, a concerning trend in recent months.
The attacks not only impacted Kyiv but also struck the Odesa region, damaging ports and food supply chains, which, according to Zelensky, had “no military purpose whatsoever.” In total, the Russian military launched 22 missiles of various types alongside the drones, the majority of which were Iranian-made Shaheds. Zelensky detailed that the focus of the strikes included vital energy infrastructure, emphasizing the necessity for ongoing military support.
He stated, “Weapons and air defense systems are important, as is the sanctions pressure on the aggressor. There can be no pauses in assistance.” Zelensky urged international partners to maintain a unified approach toward diplomacy and apply sufficient pressure on Russia to yield results.
The escalation of violence comes at a crucial time as negotiations continue in Geneva, aimed at refining the peace plan. Despite the ongoing military actions, officials remain cautiously optimistic about progress, though Russia has not yet been formally consulted on the updated proposal. As discussions move forward, the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine remains paramount.
