Russia launched its most extensive drone assault on Ukraine since the start of its full-scale invasion in 2022, killing at least one civilian and injuring several others on Sunday. The attack, involving a record-breaking 273 drones, came just a day before scheduled ceasefire talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Targeting multiple cities, including Kyiv and surrounding regions, the assault caused widespread destruction. A 28-year-old woman was killed in the Obukhiv region, while several others, including a child, were wounded. Eyewitnesses recounted terrifying moments as drones buzzed overhead, striking homes in the early hours of the morning.
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Ukrainian officials described the assault as a calculated act of terror, aimed at creating fear ahead of diplomatic negotiations. Tensions escalated further amid reports that Russia might test an intercontinental ballistic missile, though no confirmation was issued by the Kremlin.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Rome, signaling efforts to repair strained ties with Washington. He reiterated Ukraine’s willingness to engage in real diplomacy while rejecting Russian demands that he labeled unacceptable.
As the Trump-Putin call looms, European leaders are scrambling to coordinate their approach. Russia’s conditions for a ceasefire — including Ukraine’s demilitarisation and recognition of territorial claims — remain non-starters for Kyiv. With the future of the war hanging in the balance, pressure mounts on both sides to find common ground.
