Just hours after Ukraine engaged in “constructive” peace talks with US officials, Russia launched another deadly attack targeting Ukrainian cities. In the early hours of Sunday, the Kremlin struck civil infrastructure in Kremenchuk, a major industrial hub in central Ukraine, causing widespread power and water outages.
Vitalii Maltskyi, the mayor of Kremenchuk, described the assault as a “massive” attack. While no casualties have been confirmed yet, the full extent of the damage remains unclear. Residents reported explosions, and the city, home to one of Ukraine’s largest oil refineries, experienced significant disruptions to electricity, water, and heating. Maltskyi shared photos showing industrial buildings engulfed in flames during the night.
The attack comes after one of Russia’s largest overnight aerial assaults since the start of the war, which involved 653 drones and 51 missiles. Russia claimed it shot down 77 Ukrainian drones during multiple counterattacks. These strikes coincide with ongoing international efforts to negotiate an end to the war, which began in February 2022.
President Volodymyr Zelensky praised the progress made during the talks with US officials in Florida, highlighting that the “next steps and the format” for further discussions were agreed upon. Zelensky emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to working closely with the US to secure lasting peace and discussed mechanisms to ensure Russia honors any future agreements.
US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of the US President, were involved in the discussions. Zelensky stated on Telegram: “Ukraine is committed to continuing to work honestly with the American side to bring about real peace.”
Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump expressed skepticism about Russia’s intentions. Asked about potential future negotiations, he said: “I don’t know what the Kremlin is doing… It’s a war that should have never been started… What comes out of that meeting? I can’t tell you, because it does take two to tango. He would like to end the war.”
The latest strikes underscore the challenges in achieving peace while Russia continues aggressive military operations, even as diplomatic efforts advance.
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