Russia Attacks Kyiv Ahead of Zelenskiy–Trump Peace Talks
Russia launched missile and drone attacks on Ukraine’s capital and other regions early Saturday, just ahead of a key meeting between President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and U.S. President Donald Trump, aimed at advancing efforts to end the ongoing Russia–Ukraine war. Ukrainian officials said the strikes left around one-third of Kyiv without heating, whil
e explosions were heard across the city as Ukraine air defence systems intercepted incoming threats. At least eight people were injured, city authorities said, as air raid alerts remained in effect. Ukraine’s air force reported that Russian missiles and drones targeted Kyiv as well as northeastern and southern regions, marking one of the latest Russian attacks on Ukraine. The assault was still ongoing at 8 a.m. local time. The escalation comes ahead of Zelenskiy–Trump talks scheduled in Florida on Sunday. Zelenskiy said discussions would focus on territorial control, a potential ceasefire, and security guarantees as part of a proposed peace framework. The war began with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, becoming Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War Two. Territory remains the central obstacle in Ukraine peace talks. Zelenskiy said a U.S.-backed 20-point peace plan is nearly complete, while negotiations continue over land issues and long-term security arrangements. He stressed the need for legally binding guarantees to prevent future Russian aggression. Trump said the United States is leading peace efforts and expressed optimism about the upcoming meeting. He also said he expects to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin soon. Russia has not commented on the latest strikes. The attacks also affected the region, prompting Poland to temporarily close airports near the Ukrainian border. Key unresolved issues include control of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant and parts of eastern Donetsk. Zelenskiy said the peace plan could be put to a national referendum if Russia agrees to a 60-day ceasefire.
