Russia launched a massive wave of missile and drone attacks on Ukraine early Tuesday, just hours after President Volodymyr Zelensky said new US backed peace proposals appeared “quite solid,” though still difficult. The timing of the strikes raised fresh doubts about Moscow’s willingness to move toward an end to the war.
According to Ukrainian officials, Russia fired more than 650 drones and dozens of missiles, targeting energy facilities and civilian areas across the country. At least three people were killed, including a four year old child in the Zhytomyr region west of Kyiv. The attacks caused widespread power outages, with three regions completely without electricity and several others facing rolling blackouts.
Ukraine’s prime minister said western regions were hit hardest, while the energy ministry confirmed damage to critical infrastructure. President Zelensky said the strikes sent a clear message about Russia’s priorities, arguing that Moscow continues to rely on military pressure even as diplomatic efforts continue.
Zelensky also said Ukrainian negotiators had returned from talks in the United States with draft documents that include security guarantees for Ukraine. He stressed that Kyiv remains committed to a peaceful settlement and is working constructively with its partners.
However, deep disagreements remain. Ukraine wants strong security guarantees to prevent future attacks, while Russia opposes Western troop presence and limits on its influence. As negotiations continue, the latest attacks underline how far apart the two sides still are, and how fragile hopes for peace remain.
