Russia escalates attacks on Ukraine just as world leaders gathered in Washington to discuss a peaceful path forward. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with U.S. President Donald Trump and European leaders at the White House on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Moscow unleashed its most intense assault of the month across multiple Ukrainian regions. According to Ukraine’s air force, Russia launched 270 drones and 10 missiles overnight. Ukrainian forces intercepted 230 drones and six missiles. However, 40 drones and four missiles hit 16 different areas across the country.
At the same time, debris from destroyed drones landed on three separate sites, causing widespread damage. Ukraine’s Energy Ministry confirmed that the central Poltava region’s infrastructure was targeted. Large fires broke out following the strike, damaging oil and gas facilities. Furthermore, the ministry accused Russia of conducting systematic terrorist attacks. They emphasized these attacks violated international humanitarian law. “These repeated strikes aim to cripple energy systems and terrorize civilians,” the statement read.
The latest strike was the largest since July 31, when Russia launched 309 drones. Both sides have targeted energy infrastructure throughout the summer, escalating tensions and destruction. Earlier on Monday, Zelenskyy criticized Moscow for another deadly assault. That attack killed at least 14 people and injured dozens more. He condemned Russia’s strategy as one of deliberate escalation to pressure Ukraine and humiliate diplomacy.
In addition, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha posted about the strikes during peace discussions in Washington. “While we work for peace, Moscow chooses destruction,” he wrote. He argued the attacks highlight the urgent need for strong security guarantees and a lasting resolution. Russia escalates attacks despite diplomatic efforts led by the United States and Europe. Days earlier, Trump met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. During that meeting, Putin rejected an immediate ceasefire. He demanded that Ukraine surrender its eastern Donetsk region in exchange for peace.
Shortly after, Trump said he spoke with Putin by phone. He mentioned possible arrangements for a direct meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy. No date has been confirmed. As tensions grow, Russia escalates attacks to maintain pressure on Ukraine and challenge peace negotiations. Zelenskyy urged global allies to remain united against further aggression.
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