Russia Strikes Kyiv as Leaders Plan Trilateral Summit

Russian forces launched a massive assault on Ukraine using 36 ballistic missiles and 172 drones, targeting energy, transport, and military-industrial infrastructure. The strikes caused serious damage to power systems and the Northern Bridge in Kyiv, resulting in critical shortages of electricity, water, and heat. Volodymyr Zelenskiy reported at least two deaths and a dozen injuries, noting that the capital is facing serious difficulties with essential supplies.

These attacks occurred shortly before scheduled trilateral peace talks between Ukraine, Russia, and the United States in Abu Dhabi. In response to the escalation, Zelenskiy called for the US Congress to provide more attention to Ukraine as Russia increases its attacks.

Separately, the Chinese government confirmed it is coordinating a potential meeting between Chinese leader Xi Jinping, US President Donald Trump, and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The gathering is proposed for this month in Shenzhen during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit. While Trump has expressed interest in nuclear arms controls, Putin intends to use the meeting to discuss the conflict in Ukraine without Ukrainian representation.