Russia and Ukraine exchange overnight strikes ahead of diplomatic visits

Russia and Ukraine launched new overnight drone and missile strikes, even as U.S. envoys prepared to travel to both capitals to discuss peace proposals. Ukrainian emergency officials reported civilian casualties in several regions, including Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, while Ukrainian strikes hit a Russian oil refinery along with targets in Belgorod and Sochi.

The renewed attacks follow statements from former U.S. President Donald Trump claiming both sides agreed to stop targeting energy infrastructure. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Kyiv will cease strikes on Russian energy targets only if Western allies ensure Moscow stops attacking Ukrainian energy, transport, and food supply networks. Meanwhile, European Union officials denounced recent Russian strikes near the Ukrainian-Polish border, characterizing them as efforts to intimidate European nations.

Sources: Avaz, Beta, CDM, N1, Vijesti