Ukraine Launches Major Drone Attack on Russia Ahead of Key U.S. Talks
Ukraine executed a massive drone attack on Russia before pivotal U.S.-Ukrainian discussions aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict. As Russia reported significant defenses against the assault, U.S. officials arrived in Saudi Arabia to engage with Ukrainian representatives on vital issues such as military aid and ceasefire proposals.
Ukraine launched a significant drone attack on Russia just hours before critical negotiations with the United States were scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia concerning the resolution of the ongoing three-year conflict in Kyiv. Russia’s Defense Ministry reported that its forces intercepted 337 drones during the attack, resulting in two fatalities and 18 injuries across ten Russian regions.
Moscow’s mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, described this incident as the most substantial attack on the city since the war’s onset. The discussions involving U.S. and Ukrainian officials commenced in Jeddah on Tuesday, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, and Middle East Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, aiming to mend ties with the Trump administration following recent tensions during President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to Washington.
It is imperative for Ukraine to convince the United States to reverse the suspension of military assistance and intelligence sharing that followed previous disagreements. Ukrainian officials indicated plans to propose a ceasefire around the Black Sea, which aims to facilitate safer maritime operations, address civilian casualties due to missile strikes, and advocate for the release of prisoners of war.
In response to reporters, Rubio stated that the U.S. delegation would not outline specific proposals to conclude the conflict, aiming instead to listen to Ukrainian representatives and evaluate their readiness to negotiate. He remarked, “I’m not going to set any conditions… I think we want to listen to see how far they’re willing to go…”.
President Zelenskyy is not expected to take part directly in the discussions with U.S. representatives. Meanwhile, former President Trump remarked that he desires the parties to seek peace, highlighting that they have yet to demonstrate the necessary commitment.
The Kremlin has refrained from offering any public compromises, maintaining that Russia is prepared to halt hostilities only if Ukraine abandons its intent to join NATO and acknowledges Russian sovereignty over the occupied regions. Currently, Russian forces control nearly 20% of Ukraine’s territory due to the conflict.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
In summary, Ukraine’s drone attack on Russia precedes crucial U.S.-Ukrainian talks in Saudi Arabia aimed at resolving the ongoing war. While Russia reports extensive drone interceptions and casualties, discussions are expected to address ceasefire proposals and military aid reinstatement. The effectiveness of negotiations remains uncertain, as both sides hold firm positions, particularly concerning NATO membership and territorial recognition.
Original Source: news3lv.com
