Russian air strikes on Ukraine have continued overnight, hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he had a 'very constructive' phone call with Donald Trump's negotiating team following three days of talks in Florida.
Early on Sunday, the mayor of Kremenchuk, a major industrial hub in central Ukraine, said the city had been repeatedly struck in a 'massive' attack. No deaths have been confirmed so far.
Meanwhile, Russia reported shooting down 77 Ukrainian drones in multiple locations. Aerial assaults have persisted despite intensified efforts to negotiate an end to the war, particularly robust discussions in Miami aimed at drafting a peace settlement acceptable to both sides.
Zelensky stated on Saturday that he was determined to continue collaboration with the US after speaking with Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner. They discussed measures to ensure Russia adheres to any potential agreements to conclude the war.
Hours later, Kremenchuk Mayor Vitaliy Maletsk reported a 'massive combined strike' on city infrastructure. Although the full extent of the damage remained unclear, residents experienced disruptions in water, electricity, and heating services.
The city has faced repeated attacks since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022, lying approximately halfway between Kyiv and the eastern frontline.
While the White House has urged Kyiv and Moscow to agree on a multi-point plan to end the conflict, tangible progress has been elusive, despite both parties engaging in discussions.
Ukraine is committed to working in good faith with the American delegation to genuinely achieve peace. Zelensky highlighted that vital aspects were covered in negotiations, targeting an end to bloodshed and the threat of another Russian invasion.
Recent strikes came following broader assaults that drew condemnation from European allies. French President Emmanuel Macron, in a conversation with Zelensky, reaffirmed France's solidarity and commitment to facilitating de-escalation and instating a ceasefire.
Alongside Zelensky, leaders from the UK and Germany will meet in London to further deliberations. European officials advocate for security guarantees for post-war Ukraine and have called for the establishment of a coalition dedicated to ensuring Ukraine's defense if a ceasefire is reached.
Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed the idea of a multinational peacekeeping force, labeling any foreign troops in Ukraine as 'legitimate targets.'
On the diplomatic front, US and Ukrainian negotiators urged Russia to demonstrate a genuine dedication to lasting peace. This push for commitment follows Witkoff's unsuccessful attempts to broker a deal during recent talks in the Kremlin.
The ongoing conflict and recent strikes underscore the delicate balance of military aggression and diplomatic efforts, revealing the challenges that lie ahead in achieving a lasting resolution to the war in Ukraine.
