Russian drone and missile strikes hit Kyiv, Ukraine, on Saturday, resulting in at least one death and leaving a significant portion of the city without heat, according to local authorities. The attacks occurred on the eve of a scheduled meeting between U.S. and Ukrainian leaders.

Kyiv's mayor and regional governor reported that a 47-year-old woman was killed and at least 22 others were wounded in the attacks. Among the injured were two children, according to the head of Kyiv's City military administration. Air raid alerts were in effect for nearly 10 hours as ballistic missiles and drones targeted the capital.

The timing of the attacks raises concerns about Russia's strategic objectives ahead of the meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and former U.S. President Donald Trump in Florida. The meeting is expected to focus on diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict.

The strikes highlight the continued reliance on missile and drone technology in modern warfare. These technologies, often guided by artificial intelligence (AI) for targeting and navigation, present both opportunities and challenges. AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data to identify strategic targets and optimize flight paths, increasing the effectiveness of attacks. However, the use of AI in warfare also raises ethical concerns about autonomous weapons systems and the potential for unintended consequences.

The conflict in Ukraine has seen increasing use of AI on both sides, from reconnaissance drones identifying enemy positions to automated systems assisting in defense strategies. This trend reflects a broader shift towards AI-driven warfare, where algorithms and machine learning play a crucial role in decision-making and execution.

The attacks also underscore the vulnerability of civilian infrastructure in urban areas. The disruption of heat supply to a third of Kyiv highlights the potential for such attacks to cause widespread suffering and disrupt essential services.

The meeting between Zelenskyy and Trump comes at a critical juncture in the conflict. The outcome of the meeting could significantly influence the future trajectory of the war and the prospects for a negotiated settlement. The international community is closely watching the developments, with many hoping for a de-escalation of the conflict and a return to diplomatic negotiations.