Russia Strikes Ukraine: Weekend Talks Extended as Civilian Casualties Mount

At least one person was killed and 15 wounded in Russian attacks on Kyiv and Kharkiv, prompting negotiators to extend weekend talks in Abu Dhabi. The strikes on residential areas underscored the urgent humanitarian need for a ceasefire as civilian casualties continued to mount.
Mayor Vitali Klitschko issued urgent warnings via social media that Kyiv was experiencing a “massive enemy attack,” directing residents to seek shelter. The strikes hit residential buildings, resulting in casualties and significant property damage. Essential services including heat and water were disrupted in several neighborhoods, creating additional hardships.
In Kharkiv, Iranian-made Shahed drones attacked multiple residential complexes, as confirmed by Mayor Igor Terekhov. The drone strikes caused extensive damage to civilian housing and infrastructure, continuing Russia’s pattern of targeting non-military areas. The city has faced persistent bombardment due to its strategic location.
Despite the violence, diplomatic discussions continued in Abu Dhabi where American, Russian, and Ukrainian representatives engaged in talks. The UAE foreign ministry stated the negotiations would continue over the weekend as part of “ongoing efforts to promote dialogue and identify political solutions to the crisis.” The Donbas region remained the primary obstacle to progress, with Russia demanding Ukrainian military withdrawal.
Ukrainian President Zelensky suggested that peace proposals were “nearly ready” following his discussions with President Trump. He proposed creating a free trade zone in eastern Ukraine under Ukrainian control, suggesting economic benefits. Russian President Putin engaged separately with Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, as all parties committed to extended weekend negotiations.