Russia carried out a large-scale overnight missile and drone attack on Kyiv, injuring at least eight people, in an escalation that came less than 24 hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced plans to meet US President Donald Trump to discuss a possible peace framework.
The strikes hit residential areas and critical infrastructure, once again pushing civilians into shelters as air defence systems worked through the night.
The planned meeting between Zelensky and Trump is expected to take place in Florida as part of US-mediated efforts to end the nearly four-year war.
Ukrainian officials say a revised 20-point peace proposal is now “90% ready” following weeks of discussions with Washington.
Zelensky has indicated a willingness to consider compromises, including flexibility on NATO membership and certain troop-related issues, while insisting on firm, long-term security guarantees for Ukraine.
Beyond the immediate human toll, the continued conflict is worsening humanitarian and environmental challenges.
Repeated missile attacks damage homes, transport networks, and energy systems, increasing pollution, emissions, and the long-term cost of reconstruction.
Ongoing instability in the region also weakens climate resilience, food security, and cross-border cooperation across Eastern Europe.
Diplomatic activity is expected to intensify ahead of the Zelensky–Trump talks, with European leaders coordinating their positions, even though no EU representatives are expected to attend the meeting directly.
Ukrainian officials have warned that if Moscow rejects the proposed peace framework, additional international pressure on Russia may be necessary.