Russian forces killed one person and wounded 15 others in attacks that severed essential utilities in Kyiv and Kharkiv, while negotiators explored a political pathway to peace. The strikes disrupted heat and water services as diplomatic discussions focused on non-military solutions.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko alerted residents via social media that the capital faced a “massive enemy attack,” directing people to seek shelter. The bombardment targeted residential buildings and infrastructure, causing casualties and widespread damage. Essential utilities including heat and water were severed in several neighborhoods, creating severe hardships during winter.
Mayor Igor Terekhov reported that Kharkiv experienced attacks from Iranian-made Shahed drones, which damaged residential complexes and severed utilities. The drone strikes caused extensive damage to civilian infrastructure, demonstrating Russia’s continued targeting of essential services. The northeastern city has faced persistent bombardment throughout the conflict.
In Abu Dhabi, negotiators from Russia, Ukraine, and the United States explored a political pathway to ending the war. The UAE foreign ministry stated the two-day discussions represented “ongoing efforts to promote dialogue and identify political solutions to the crisis.” President Zelensky proposed establishing a free trade zone, suggesting economic and political solutions could work together.
Ukrainian President Zelensky announced that peace proposals were approaching completion following his meeting with President Trump. He framed the free trade zone as “positive for our business,” indicating a political pathway that included economic incentives. President Putin met with Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, as all parties pursued non-military solutions.