Russian forces killed one person and injured 15 others in attacks on Kyiv and Kharkiv, with Iranian-made drones playing a prominent role in the assault. The strikes targeted residential areas even as American, Russian, and Ukrainian negotiators worked toward a peace agreement in Abu Dhabi.
Mayor Vitali Klitschko warned Kyiv residents that the capital faced a “massive enemy attack,” directing people to seek immediate shelter. The bombardment hit residential buildings, causing casualties and significant infrastructure damage. Heat and water services were disrupted across parts of the city, affecting thousands of residents during the winter season.
In Kharkiv, Mayor Igor Terekhov confirmed that Iranian-manufactured Shahed drones were used in attacks on several residential complexes. The drone strikes caused extensive damage to civilian housing, demonstrating Russia’s continued reliance on Iranian military technology. The northeastern city has endured persistent bombardment throughout the war.
The violence occurred as high-stakes diplomatic discussions proceeded in Abu Dhabi, where negotiators gathered for two-day talks. The UAE foreign ministry stated the meetings represented efforts “to promote dialogue and identify political solutions to the crisis.” The Donbas region emerged as the primary obstacle to progress, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reiterating Russia’s demand that Ukrainian forces withdraw from the eastern territories.
President Zelensky, following his meeting with President Trump, suggested that peace proposals were “nearly ready,” though significant territorial disputes remain unresolved. He proposed creating a free trade zone in eastern Ukraine under Kyiv’s administration, which he believes would strengthen the economy. President Putin engaged separately with Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, as multiple diplomatic channels remained active throughout the weekend in pursuit of a breakthrough.