Russia and Ukraine trade drone strike claims during Geneva peace talks

Fresh hostilities have erupted between Russia and Ukraine with both sides reporting overnight drone attacks, creating a tense backdrop for crucial peace negotiations scheduled in Geneva to discuss a proposed settlement to the prolonged conflict.

Ukrainian Reports of Civilian Infrastructure Damage

Ukrainian authorities confirmed multiple attacks on urban centers, with Dnipropetrovsk Governor Vladyslav Haivanenko reporting 15 people requiring medical attention following strikes on Dnipro city. Mayor Borys Filatov detailed damage to five residential buildings, while Odesa Governor Oleh Kiper described fires at energy and transport facilities in his region. In Zaporizhzhia, officials revised the injury count from a supermarket attack to six people as Ukraine's Air Force claimed successful interception of 69 out of 98 Russian drones.

Russian Claims of Ukrainian Drone Interceptions

Russian defense officials presented counter-claims, stating their air defense systems intercepted 75 Ukrainian drones, including 36 over the Black Sea. Moscow region Governor Andrey Vorobyov reported a fire at a power station in Shatura, approximately 120 kilometers east of the capital, though he assured residents that utility services continued normal operation while restoration efforts proceeded.

Diplomatic Efforts Amid Continued Hostilities

The exchange of attacks coincides with scheduled meetings in Geneva where US, Ukrainian, and European officials are examining a 28-point American peace proposal. The leaked draft suggests requirements for Ukraine to cede additional territory to Russia, accept military limitations, and abandon NATO membership aspirations. US President Donald Trump has established a Thursday deadline for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's response to the proposed terms.

International Reactions to Peace Proposal

President Zelenskyy characterized the decision as choosing between "loss of our dignity or the risk of losing a key partner," while Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated the US plan "could be used as the basis" for settlement discussions. European leaders have acknowledged the proposal's potential as a negotiation starting point but emphasized the need for additional refinement before acceptance.