UPDATE: Russia has launched a significant missile and drone assault on Ukraine, deploying 653 drones and 51 missiles overnight into Saturday. This strike comes as U.S. and Ukrainian officials prepare for a critical third day of diplomatic talks aimed at concluding nearly four years of conflict.
The barrage triggered air raid alerts nationwide, coinciding with Ukraine’s Armed Forces Day, as confirmed by the country’s air force. Ukrainian defenses successfully intercepted 585 drones and 30 missiles, although the attacks resulted in at least eight injuries, with three reported in the Kyiv region. Drone activity extended as far west as Lviv, signaling the widespread nature of the assault.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that energy infrastructure was the primary target of the strikes, which included significant damage to power stations. Notably, a drone attack damaged the train station in Fastiv, located in the Kyiv region. The national energy operator, Ukrenergo, indicated that the attacks were aimed at crippling essential services as winter approaches, a strategy Ukrainian officials describe as “weaponizing” the cold.
In retaliation, Russian sources reported that their air defenses shot down 116 Ukrainian drones over its territory during the same period. Additionally, a Russian Telegram channel claimed that Ukrainian forces targeted the Ryazan Oil Refinery, alleging a drone attack that caused a fire. However, local authorities in Ryazan did not confirm the refinery’s involvement, only mentioning that a residential building sustained damage.
As the conflict escalates, the humanitarian impact grows. Kyiv and its Western allies assert that Russia’s ongoing tactics are designed to deprive civilians of heat, light, and water for a fourth consecutive winter. The urgency of the situation is underscored by the ongoing diplomatic discussions in Florida, where U.S. officials are attempting to broker a peace agreement. Following Friday’s meetings, special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s advisers conveyed that any meaningful progress hinges on Russia’s willingness to commit to long-term peace.
With the situation rapidly evolving, all eyes are on the outcomes of today’s negotiations. The international community is watching closely, as the stakes remain high for both nations and their citizens. The world awaits updates on the impact of this latest attack and the potential for a breakthrough in talks aimed at ending this prolonged conflict.
