Deadly strikes hit Ukraine as peace discussions begin in Turkey
A new wave of Russian missile and drone attacks struck multiple Ukrainian cities overnight, killing at least twenty five people and adding fresh uncertainty to President Volodymyr Zelensky’s effort to restart the peace process. The attacks came just hours before the Ukrainian leader was expected to hold talks in Ankara in an attempt to move discussions forward after months of stalled diplomatic progress.
Ukraine’s interior ministry said the latest strikes caused severe damage in western regions that have generally seen fewer large scale attacks since the early months of the conflict. Officials reported that twenty five people, including three children, lost their lives. Another seventy three people were injured, among them fifteen children. Authorities fear the number of casualties could rise as rescue teams continue to search through damaged buildings and rubble.
Local emergency services described scenes of significant destruction, with residential buildings, public areas and infrastructure sites among the places hit. Volunteers and emergency workers spent the night evacuating survivors, extinguishing fires and providing medical support. Hospitals in the affected areas remain under pressure as they treat both critical and moderate injuries.
The timing of the strikes has intensified attention on President Zelensky’s visit to Turkey, where he is scheduled to meet with officials in an effort to revive international engagement on peace efforts. Ukrainian authorities have stated that the aim of the discussions is to bring renewed focus to diplomatic options while maintaining the country’s call for security guarantees and territorial integrity.
Meanwhile, Moscow has not commented on a recent report from United States media outlets that suggested Washington and Moscow may have explored a confidential proposal related to ending the conflict. The Kremlin’s silence has fueled speculation but has also highlighted the uncertainty surrounding any possible back channel contacts. Analysts note that the ongoing military escalation makes diplomatic movement more complicated.
For many Ukrainians, the overnight attacks were a painful reminder of the conflict’s human cost even as conversations about peace continue. Community leaders in the affected regions said that families are struggling with grief and shock while trying to assist rescue efforts. Some residents expressed frustration that renewed diplomatic discussions have not yet brought tangible improvement to their safety on the ground.
International reactions to the strikes were swift, with several governments expressing condolences and reaffirming support for Ukraine. Humanitarian agencies warned that winter conditions will make recovery efforts more difficult, increasing the importance of shelter, medical supplies and support for displaced families.
As peace talks proceed in Turkey, Ukrainian officials say that dialogue must continue despite the violence. They stressed that any meaningful progress will require international coordination and a clear commitment to protecting civilians. For now, the country remains in a complex position, balancing immediate security needs with hopes for future diplomatic breakthroughs.
