Russia Launches Largest Drone Attack on Ukraine Amid Ceasefire Talks

In a significant escalation of hostilities, Russia launched its largest drone assault on Ukraine since the onset of the war in 2022. The attack involved 273 drones and decoys, targeting Kyiv and eastern regions such as Dnipropetrovsk and Donetsk. The strikes resulted in the death of a 28-year-old woman and injuries to three others, including a child. Earlier that day, a separate Russian attack on a bus in the Sumy region killed nine Civilians and wounded seven more. Ukraine’s air defense systems intercepted 88 drones, while 128 others were neutralized via electronic jamming.

This unprecedented assault follows failed U.S.-mediated peace talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul, the first since the war began. Ukraine accused Russia of derailing the talks by introducing new, unacceptable demands, including territorial concessions. Ukrainian officials believe Russia escalated hostilities to influence negotiations. President Zelensky has called for increased international pressure on Russia and remains committed to an immediate ceasefire and diplomatic resolution. 

In response to the escalating conflict, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held critical meetings in Rome with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and European leaders. The discussions focused on achieving a ceasefire in Ukraine amid intensified Russian drone attacks. Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of “real diplomacy,” reiterating Ukraine’s commitment to a full, unconditional ceasefire, and welcomed the Vatican’s potential role as a venue for peace talks. He also acknowledged Pope Leo XIV’s efforts and a promise from Russia and Ukraine to exchange 1,000 prisoners, a rare agreement from recent Istanbul talks. 

Despite military escalation, discussions signaled a renewed international push to end the war. While Putin rejected a direct meeting with Zelenskyy, he expressed openness to lower-level negotiations. European leaders, including Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz, coordinated with the U.S. to advance diplomatic efforts. The focus now shifts to the upcoming high stakes call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which aims to de-escalate tensions and explore pathways to peace.