Russia Escalates Attacks on Ukraine Ahead of Ceasefire Talks

Diplomatic efforts for a limited ceasefire face challenges as hostilities intensify with major Russian drone strikes and Ukrainian retaliation.

Russia launched a massive drone attack on Odessa, causing fires, injuries, and significant damage to civilian infrastructure.
Ukraine retaliated with strikes on Russian infrastructure, targeting a gas station in the Kursk region.
Ceasefire negotiations focusing on energy infrastructure are set to begin next week in Saudi Arabia, with U.S.-mediated talks involving Ukraine and Russia.
France plans a summit in Paris to discuss European military support and security guarantees for Ukraine, with potential troop contributions from France and the UK.
The EU announced plans for significant defense investments to bolster readiness and support Ukraine, while the U.S. seeks a rare-earth partnership with Ukraine tied to ongoing aid.