Russia launched a large missile and drone attack on Kyiv early Saturday. The strike came hours before key peace talks between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trump.
Ukrainian officials said the attack caused explosions, power cuts, and civilian injuries across several regions.
Russia Targets Kyiv in Overnight Strike
The Ukrainian Air Force said Russia fired Kinzhal hypersonic missiles, Iskander ballistic missiles, Kalibr cruise missiles, and drones. The weapons targeted Kyiv and other strategic areas.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko urged residents to stay in shelters. Air defense systems worked through the night to stop the attacks. Reporters from Reuters and AFP saw heavy air defense fire over the city.
Parts of Kyiv Oblast, including Brovary, lost power. Ongoing attacks on energy facilities have worsened winter conditions.
Civilians Injured, Buildings Damaged
Officials reported at least five injuries in Kyiv. Damage was also reported in nearby areas:
- A high-rise building damaged in Vyshhorod
- Warehouses and vehicles hit in Boryspil
- One person injured in Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast
The strikes again hit energy sites. Officials say Russia is increasing pressure on civilian infrastructure.
Strike Comes Before High-Level Peace Talks
President Zelenskyy is due to travel to Florida on Sunday. He plans to meet President Trump at Mar-a-Lago on December 28.
Zelenskyy called the meeting “crucial.” Negotiators are close to finalizing a revised 20-point peace plan.
What the Peace Plan Includes
Sources say the proposal includes:
- Security guarantees from the U.S., NATO, and European allies
- A large reconstruction and investment fund
- No limits on Ukraine’s future NATO goals
- Demilitarized or economic zones in parts of Donbas
- A Peace Council led by President Trump
Territorial control remains the main issue. Disputes over Donbas and the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant continue.
Russia Responds as Fighting Continues
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said the plan differs from earlier talks. He also said discussions show progress.
Russia claims gains in eastern Ukraine. Ukraine says its forces have pushed back many attacks.
War Pressure Threatens Diplomacy
The latest strike follows deadly attacks earlier this month, including a missile strike on Dnipro. That attack killed civilians and injured dozens.
Analysts warn that rising military pressure could slow peace efforts. Zelenskyy said “a lot can be decided before the New Year.”
Air alerts remain active across much of Ukraine.