Kyiv under fire as Russia launches Massive Strike ahead of Trump-Zelensky Peace Talks
Russia attacked Ukraine’s capital Kyiv with missiles and drones on Saturday. Image Credit: Valentyn Ogirenko/REUTERS
Kyiv was rocked overnight as Russia launched one of its largest aerial attacks of the year, striking Ukraine’s capital just days before high-stakes peace talks between President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump. The assault, which involved nearly 500 drones and 40 missiles, killed at least one civilian and injured at least 28 others, according to Ukrainian authorities.
The strikes triggered fires across residential neighborhoods, damaged apartment blocks and energy facilities, and left thousands of homes without electricity and heating as winter temperatures dropped below freezing. The timing of the attack has intensified global concern, coming as diplomatic efforts to end the nearly four-year war gain momentum.
Civilian Infrastructure and Energy Targets Hit
Ukrainian officials said the Russian barrage primarily targeted civilian and energy infrastructure. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed that more than 2,600 residential buildings, along with schools, kindergartens, and social institutions, were left without heating or power.
Emergency services evacuated residents from burning apartment buildings, including 68 elderly people from a retirement home in the Darnytskyi district. Images from the capital showed firefighters battling blazes in sub-zero temperatures as residents sheltered in metro stations during air raid sirens.
President Zelensky condemned the attack, stating that Russia’s actions contradict its claims of pursuing peace, adding that missiles and drones are Moscow’s “real language.”
Poland Scrambles Fighter Jets Amid Regional Tensions
The scale of the assault prompted Poland to scramble fighter jets and activate air defense systems along its eastern border with Ukraine. Polish authorities described the move as a “preventative” step to protect national airspace amid fears of spillover from the conflict.
Although no violation of Polish airspace was detected, the response underscored how Russia’s strikes on Kyiv continue to destabilize the wider region, raising security concerns for NATO’s eastern flank.
READ ALSO
Attack Comes Ahead of Trump-Zelensky Peace Meeting
The escalation comes just ahead of a planned meeting between Zelensky and Trump in Florida, where both leaders are expected to discuss a new 20-point peace framework negotiated by Ukrainian and US officials. Zelensky has described the plan as “90% ready” and a potential foundation for ending the war.
Trump, however, has publicly cautioned that any deal requires his approval, while also signaling openness to talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. European leaders, including EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, are expected to join related discussions via phone, reflecting Europe’s deep stake in the outcome.
Peace Plan Details and Sticking Points
The revised peace proposal reportedly includes security guarantees from the US, NATO, and European allies, as well as possible demilitarized or free economic zones in contested parts of eastern Ukraine’s Donbas region.
Russia has demanded that Ukraine abandon its NATO ambitions and withdraw from parts of Donetsk and Luhansk. While Zelensky has shown willingness to compromise on some issues, he insists that any territorial changes must be approved by the Ukrainian people through a referendum.
Kyiv Attack Signals Uncertain Path to Peace
Despite ongoing negotiations, the latest strikes highlight the fragile and unpredictable nature of peace efforts. Analysts warn that Russia’s continued attacks on Kyiv may be intended to strengthen its negotiating position or test Western resolve.
As Ukraine braces for further attacks, the world watches closely to see whether diplomacy can succeed where weapons have failed.
FAQ
What happened in Kyiv today?
Russia launched a large-scale overnight missile and drone attack on Kyiv, killing at least one person, injuring dozens, and damaging residential and energy infrastructure.
Why did Russia attack Kyiv now?
The strikes came just days before planned peace talks between President Zelensky and US President Donald Trump, raising concerns Russia is applying military pressure during negotiations.
How many drones and missiles were used in the attack?
Ukrainian officials say Russia fired nearly 500 drones and 40 missiles, making it one of the most intense attacks on Kyiv this year.
Why did Poland scramble fighter jets?
Poland activated its air force and air defenses as a precaution to protect its airspace due to the proximity of the Russian strikes near its border with Ukraine.
Is Kyiv without electricity and heating?
Yes. Thousands of homes, schools, and social institutions lost power and heating amid freezing temperatures following the strikes.
What is the Trump-Zelensky peace plan?
The plan is a 20-point framework negotiated by Ukrainian and US officials, focusing on security guarantees, potential demilitarized zones, and steps toward ending the war.
Will Ukraine give up territory for peace?
Zelensky has indicated openness to limited concessions but insists any territorial changes must be approved by Ukrainian citizens via a referendum.
Is Russia serious about ending the war?
Ukrainian leaders argue the continued attacks on Kyiv suggest Russia is not genuinely committed to peace, despite ongoing diplomatic talks.