Russia launched a major overnight aerial attack on Kremenchuk, a central industrial city in Ukraine, causing widespread disruptions to essential services including water, electricity, and heating.
Local officials described the assault as a severe blow to infrastructure, though no fatalities have been reported. Kremenchuk, positioned between Kyiv and the eastern conflict zone, has faced repeated bombardment since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in 2022.
The attack coincided with the conclusion of high-level peace talks in Florida between Ukrainian negotiators and representatives of U.S. President Donald Trump. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed confidence in progress made during the discussions, highlighting agreements on security frameworks and deterrence measures aimed at securing lasting peace.
Despite active diplomacy, Russia’s military operations, including claims of shooting down dozens of Ukrainian drones, have continued unabated.
European leaders have condemned the recent strikes and voiced support for Ukraine’s efforts to achieve a ceasefire. French President Emmanuel Macron reiterated France’s commitment to working with international partners to de-escalate the conflict.
Macron is set to join Zelenskyy, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in London for urgent talks focused on peace proposals and post-war security arrangements. Starmer has proposed forming a coalition of allies to support Ukraine’s defence long-term, while Russia remains opposed to the deployment of peacekeeping forces within the country.