Russian forces killed one person and wounded 15 others in attacks on Kyiv and Kharkiv, while an east Ukraine trade zone was discussed as Western facilitators worked toward peace. The strikes on residential areas occurred as economic and diplomatic solutions were explored simultaneously.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko warned residents that the capital faced a “massive enemy attack,” directing them to remain in protective shelters. The bombardment targeted residential buildings, causing casualties and widespread damage. Essential services including heat and water were disrupted in parts of the city.
In Kharkiv, Iranian-made Shahed drones attacked multiple residential complexes, as confirmed by Mayor Igor Terekhov. The drone strikes caused significant damage to civilian infrastructure, demonstrating Russia’s continued use of Iranian military technology. The northeastern city has faced persistent bombardment throughout the conflict.
In Abu Dhabi, Western facilitators including the United States worked with Russian and Ukrainian representatives in two-day talks. The UAE foreign ministry stated the discussions were part of “ongoing efforts to promote dialogue and identify political solutions to the crisis.” President Zelensky proposed establishing a free trade zone in eastern Ukraine under Kyiv’s control as part of potential settlement terms.
Ukrainian President Zelensky suggested that peace proposals were approaching completion following his meeting with President Trump. He framed the free trade zone in east Ukraine as “positive for our business,” offering economic incentives. President Putin engaged separately with Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
