Russia and Ukraine exchange strikes ahead of US diplomatic visits

Russian and Ukrainian forces continued cross-border attacks overnight despite impending visits by American diplomatic envoys aimed at discussing potential peace proposals. Ukrainian officials reported civilian casualties from Russian drone and missile strikes across several regions, including Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces targeted Russian locations in Belgorod, Sochi, and an oil refinery.

The continued hostilities coincide with preparations for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's trip to the United Nations General Assembly. Former US President Donald Trump claimed both nations agreed to halt strikes on energy facilities. However, Zelensky reiterated that Ukrainian compliance depends on Western guarantees that Russia will similarly refrain from targeting energy, civilian infrastructure, and food supply routes. European Union leaders also condemned recent Russian attacks near the Polish border, describing them as attempts to intimidate European allies.

Sources: Avaz, Beta, CDM, N1, Vijesti