At least one person was killed and 15 injured in what Kyiv’s mayor described as a “massive enemy attack” by Russian forces, while the UAE facilitated peace talks in Abu Dhabi. The strikes on Kyiv and Kharkiv occurred as the Emirates hosted critical negotiations between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States.
Mayor Vitali Klitschko issued urgent warnings via social media that Kyiv was under a “massive enemy attack,” directing residents to seek immediate shelter. The strikes targeted residential buildings, resulting in casualties and widespread damage. Heat and water infrastructure was knocked offline in several neighborhoods, creating severe hardships during winter.
Mayor Igor Terekhov reported that Kharkiv experienced attacks from Iranian-manufactured Shahed drones, which damaged several residential complexes in the northeastern city. The drone strikes highlighted Russia’s continued use of Iranian military technology against civilian targets. The city has endured repeated bombardment throughout the conflict.
The UAE played a facilitating role, hosting two-day talks between American, Russian, and Ukrainian representatives. The UAE foreign ministry stated the discussions were part of “ongoing efforts to promote dialogue and identify political solutions to the crisis.” The Emirates’ involvement represented significant international diplomatic engagement.
President Zelensky expressed optimism following his meeting with President Trump, announcing that peace proposals were approaching completion. He proposed establishing a free trade zone in eastern Ukraine under Kyiv’s control. President Putin met separately with Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, while all parties continued negotiations.