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Russia Escalates Attacks on Ukraine as Peace Talks Begin Without Kyiv

Widespread missile and drone strikes target critical infrastructure, causing significant damage and civilian casualties across multiple regions.

A resident stands at the site of an apartment building and a clinic hit by a Russian drone strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Odesa, Ukraine February 19, 2025. REUTERS/Nina Liashonok/File Photo
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Overview

  • Russian forces have launched extensive air attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure, using missiles and over 160 drones, damaging gas and energy facilities in regions like Kharkiv, Odesa, and Poltava.
  • Ukraine's air defenses successfully downed 87 drones overnight, while others were lost due to electronic countermeasures, with no reported damage from those that vanished.
  • Civilian areas in cities such as Kherson, Sloviansk, and Huliaipole were struck, resulting in multiple casualties, including children, and significant destruction of residential buildings.
  • The attacks coincide with U.S.-led peace discussions in Saudi Arabia that excluded Ukraine, drawing criticism from Kyiv and European allies.
  • Ukrainian officials emphasize the continued resilience of their forces, repelling numerous Russian assaults on the frontlines while addressing the aftermath of ongoing airstrikes.