Russia Launches Devastating Drone and Missile Assault on Ukraine Amid Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts

Russia Unleashes Drone and Missile Attack on Ukraine Amid Ongoing Diplomatic Talks Russia launched a massive drone and missile barrage on Ukraine overnight into Saturday, striking at least 29 locations across the country. Ukrainian forces shot down and neutralized 585 drones and 30 missiles, with at least eight people wounded in the attacks. The assault came as Ukraine marked Armed Forces Day, and as U.S. and Ukrainian officials prepared to meet for a third day of talks aimed at ending the nearly 4-year-old war. According to Ukrainian officials, the attack began at approximately 2:00 AM local time on Saturday, with air raid alerts triggered across the country. The Ukrainian air force reported that 653 drones and 51 missiles were used in the wide-reaching attack. Ukrainian Minister of Internal Affairs Ihor Klymenko confirmed that at least three people were wounded, with five others injured in the strikes. The immediate impact of the attack is being felt across Ukraine, with emergency services scrambling to respond to the damage. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has condemned the attack, calling it a "clear attempt to disrupt" the ongoing diplomatic efforts. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has been ongoing since 2021, with the international community calling for a peaceful resolution. The ongoing talks between U.S. and Ukrainian officials aim to establish a framework for a potential ceasefire and the withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukrainian territory. As the situation continues to unfold, the international community is watching closely. The United Nations has called for an immediate ceasefire, while the European Union has reiterated its support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The next round of talks between U.S. and Ukrainian officials is set to take place on Saturday, with hopes of making progress towards a lasting peace.