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Sunday 22/02/2026

Russian Drone Strikes on Kyiv Amid Renewed Peace Talks Efforts

Kyiv cityscape with smoke, fire, and drones overhead
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Russian drone and missile attacks on Kyiv killed at least one person and injured seven, including a child, as confirmed by city officials.
  • Ukrainian and US negotiators are preparing for peace talks amid ongoing Russian attacks, with a revised US peace plan on the table.
  • Kyiv's mayor reported fires in residential areas, and power outages affected parts of the city due to the strikes.
  • Andriy Yermak, a key aide to President Zelenskyy, resigned following anti-corruption searches, impacting Ukraine's negotiation team.
  • Ukrainian forces continue defensive operations in Kupiansk, countering Russian claims of control over the area.

In a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict, Russian drone and missile attacks targeted Kyiv early Saturday, resulting in at least one fatality and injuring seven others, including a 13-year-old child. The strikes, which hit residential areas and caused significant damage, come at a critical juncture as Ukrainian and US officials prepare for peace negotiations.

Escalating Attacks Amid Peace Efforts

The attacks on Kyiv, which included the use of cruise and ballistic missiles, have intensified the urgency of upcoming peace talks. Kyiv's mayor, Vitaly Klitschko, confirmed that fires broke out in several districts, and parts of the city experienced power outages. "Enemy drones are over the city, with air defence responding," stated Tymur Tkachenko, head of Kyiv's military administration, on Telegram. The strikes follow a similar attack earlier in the week that claimed seven lives.

Political Shifts and Negotiation Dynamics

The peace talks, centered around a revised US plan, are set to take place this weekend. However, the sudden resignation of Andriy Yermak, President Zelenskyy's chief of staff, has added a layer of complexity. Yermak, who was instrumental in the negotiations, stepped down following anti-corruption searches at his residence. President Zelenskyy announced the resignation, emphasizing the need for undistracted focus on Ukraine's defense.

Defensive Operations in Kupiansk

Despite the ongoing negotiations, Ukrainian forces remain vigilant. In Kupiansk, Ukrainian troops are actively defending their positions and conducting operations to disrupt Russian supply lines. Oleksandr Syrskyi, Ukraine's top commander, highlighted the daily defensive and offensive actions aimed at stabilizing the region.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The upcoming peace talks, influenced by the revised US plan, could potentially pave the way for a resolution to the conflict, though significant hurdles remain. The resignation of Andriy Yermak might slow down the negotiation process, but it also presents an opportunity for Ukraine to reorganize its strategy. Meanwhile, Russia's continued military aggression underscores the challenges of reaching a peaceful settlement. As Ukrainian forces maintain their defensive posture, the international community will be closely watching the outcomes of the negotiations and their implications for regional stability.