Russia launched ballistic missiles at Kyiv while Ukraine retaliated with drones targeting Moscow, continuing the conflict despite U.S. efforts to mediate. Russian President Putin expressed readiness to resume talks with Ukraine next month following discussions with U.S. envoy Witkoff. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy criticized the attacks, sarcastically referring to Putin as a “humanitarian” after recent developments involving a freed American prisoner in Russia.
Zelenskyy reported casualties in Ukraine, with two dead and 34 injured, including children, across several regions. While Ukraine claimed Russia fired 21 ballistic missiles in three waves, Russia stated that Ukraine deployed 630 drones towards Moscow. Both sides conducted an exchange of war dead, with Moscow and Ukraine handing over bodies as a precursor to potential negotiations.
In separate incidents, Russia conducted a significant strike on port infrastructure in Ukraine’s Odesa region and targeted Ukrainian military vessels. Near Moscow, drones launched by Ukraine injured two individuals, while in the Belgorod region, one man was killed and another wounded by Ukrainian drones. The ongoing conflict has witnessed escalated air strikes targeting critical infrastructure on both sides.
The conflict, deemed the deadliest in Europe since World War II, stems from Russia’s opposition to Ukraine joining NATO. While Russia demands territorial concessions and military restrictions from Ukraine, the latter considers such terms as capitulation. Previous diplomatic efforts in Istanbul, Abu Dhabi, and Geneva have not led to a resolution.
Zelenskyy met with Witkoff in Oslo to mend strained relations with the U.S., following controversies over a Russian diesel deal and sanctions. Despite some positive signals from the meetings, the Kremlin expressed reservations about the developments. The conflict has also involved technological disruptions, with accusations of interference in satellite systems and missile defense operations.
The evolving dynamics in the conflict have prompted Zelenskyy to voice concerns over potential shifts in U.S. policy towards Russia. The situation remains volatile as both sides engage in military actions amid diplomatic efforts to find a peaceful resolution.
