Russia and Ukraine launched heavy missile and drone attacks against each other overnight, intensifying the violence as diplomatic efforts surrounding a U.S.–Russia summit collapsed.
In Ukraine, officials reported that six people were killed, including two children, in Russian strikes on Kyiv and surrounding regions. Widespread power outages affected multiple areas following the assaults. The Ukrainian Air Force also said it used Franco-British Storm Shadow missiles to strike a chemical plant in Russia’s Bryansk region.
The attacks came as hopes for a summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin were dashed. The White House confirmed there were no plans for a meeting in the “immediate future”, noting that Trump was unwilling to hold a “wasted meeting.” Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, however, insisted that preparations for a summit were ongoing and that “thorough preparation is needed before then.”
Observers say the sudden resumption of strikes underscores how deeply the war remains entrenched—even as diplomatic channels attempt to reengage. The attacks may deal a blow to any momentum toward peace negotiations.
The overnight violence signals that both sides remain ready to escalate military operations despite diplomatic overtures. The collapse of the proposed U.S.–Russia summit raises doubts about near-term prospects for de-escalation. Civilian casualties and infrastructure damage further threaten Ukraine’s energy security, especially with colder months nearing.
