Russia launches extensive drone and missile strike on Ukraine amid ongoing diplomatic negotiations

KYIV, Ukraine Overnight into Saturday, Russia carried out a large-scale missile and drone offensive against Ukraine, coinciding with plans for U.S. and Ukrainian officials to hold a third day of negotiations aimed at ending the nearly four-year conflict.

During previous discussions, some progress was made toward outlining a security framework for a postwar Ukraine. However, both sides emphasized that any meaningful agreement will ultimately hinge on Russias willingness to demonstrate a genuine commitment to lasting peace. This statement came from U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, and Ukrainian negotiators Rustem Umerov and Andriy Hnatov following their second day of talks in Florida on Friday. The parties provided only general details about the progress, as Trump continues to urge both Kyiv and Moscow to accept a U.S.-mediated plan to conclude the war.

Russia deployed 653 drones and 51 missiles in the overnight attacks, triggering air raid warnings nationwide on Ukraines Armed Forces Day, according to the Ukrainian Air Force. Ukrainian defenses intercepted 585 drones and 30 missiles, though 29 locations were still struck. At least eight individuals were injured, including three in the Kyiv region. Drone activity was reported as far west as Lviv.

Nuclear Power Plant Temporarily Disconnected

Ukraines national energy operator, Ukrenergo, reported that the strikes targeted energy infrastructure across multiple regions. The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant temporarily lost all off-site power, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency. Although the plant is currently non-operational and under Russian control, consistent power is required to maintain cooling for its six inactive reactors and stored fuel, preventing potential nuclear hazards.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that energy facilities were primary targets and noted a drone strike had destroyed the train station in Fastiv, Kyiv region. Meanwhile, Russia reported intercepting 116 Ukrainian drones over its territory. Russian Telegram channel Astra shared footage of a fire at the Ryazan Oil Refinery, reportedly caused by Ukrainian attacks, though independent verification was not possible. Local officials noted damage to a residential building and industrial site from falling drone debris. Ukrainian long-range strikes on Russian refineries aim to reduce Moscows oil revenue to fund the war effort. Ukrainian authorities claim Russia is attempting to cripple the countrys energy system and deprive civilians of essential utilities during winter.

Diplomatic Talks Progress Slowly

The attacks coincided with U.S. and Ukrainian officials preparing for a third day of discussions on a security framework for postwar Ukraine. Previous sessions produced cautious optimism, but both sides stressed that real progress depends on Russias commitment to peace. Following these talks, Zelenskyy is scheduled to meet British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London to discuss ongoing negotiations and security guarantees for Ukraines future.

Author: Noah Whitman