Volodymyr Zelensky criticized Russia for launching a violent attack on war-torn Ukraine just before crucial peace talks with Donald Trump. The assault, which targeted Kyiv with missiles and drones, resulted in one fatality and 27 injuries, including two children. This attack occurred as Zelensky was set to meet with Trump to resolve the conflict that has been ongoing for nearly four years.
Zelensky took to social media to express his frustration at Russia’s lack of response to peace proposals made by the United States and the international community. He accused Russian representatives of prolonging talks while military actions continued, indicating a lack of genuine interest in ending the war and a desire to escalate suffering in Ukraine and globally.
The Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, faced a barrage of ballistic missiles and drones, causing widespread destruction to energy facilities and civilian infrastructure. Numerous residential buildings were damaged, leaving some areas without electricity and heating. The attacks also affected industrial and residential structures in the wider Kyiv region.
The Russian Defense Ministry claimed responsibility for the “massive strike,” which involved long-range precision weapons and drones targeting Ukrainian military and energy installations. In response, Russia alleged that Ukraine had attacked civilian targets within Russian territory.
Additionally, Poland intercepted Ukrainian drones over its airspace during the Russian assaults and temporarily closed airports near the Ukrainian border. Despite the escalating tensions, Zelensky remained committed to meeting with Trump to discuss a comprehensive plan to address the conflict, including economic agreements and territorial issues.
The meeting between Zelensky and Trump is part of a broader diplomatic effort led by the US to end the war, which began with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 following the annexation of Crimea in 2014.