Russian forces killed at least one person and injured 15 others in attacks on Kyiv and Kharkiv that filled emergency shelters, while negotiators committed to working through the weekend in Abu Dhabi. The strikes on residential areas demonstrated the continued danger to civilians as diplomatic efforts intensified.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko issued emergency warnings that the capital was experiencing a “massive enemy attack,” urging residents to remain in protective shelters. The bombardment targeted residential buildings, causing casualties and significant infrastructure damage. Heat and water services were disrupted in several neighborhoods, affecting thousands of people.
Mayor Igor Terekhov reported that Kharkiv experienced attacks from Iranian-manufactured Shahed drones, which struck multiple residential complexes. The drone assaults caused extensive damage to civilian housing, continuing Russia’s pattern of targeting non-military areas. The northeastern city has endured persistent bombardment throughout the conflict.
In Abu Dhabi, American, Russian, and Ukrainian representatives engaged in talks that the UAE foreign ministry described as “ongoing efforts to promote dialogue and identify political solutions to the crisis.” Negotiators committed to working through the weekend, demonstrating the seriousness of the diplomatic effort. However, the Donbas region remained a major point of contention.
President Zelensky, following discussions with President Trump, announced that peace proposals were approaching completion. He proposed establishing a free trade zone in eastern Ukraine under Ukrainian control, suggesting economic benefits. President Putin met with Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, as multiple diplomatic channels operated throughout the weekend.