Russia Launches Massive Drone, Missile Strikes Across Ukraine Amid Peace Efforts

Russia launched one of its largest aerial attacks of the year on Ukraine, firing 574 drones and 40 missiles predominantly targeting western regions, including residential areas, resulting in at least two deaths. This massive bombardment, described as the heaviest in over a month, drew sharp condemnation from France and Lithuania, who accused Russia of stalling peace efforts and demonstrating a lack of genuine will to engage in negotiations. Both countries, along with Ukraine, emphasized the need to maintain or increase pressure on Moscow to end the ongoing war. The strikes coincided with renewed diplomatic efforts led by U.S. President Donald Trump, including recent meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, aimed at securing a lasting peace and security guarantees for Ukraine. Despite these talks, Russia has shown little appetite for direct negotiations with Zelensky, focusing instead on broader security discussions and continuing military aggression. Ukrainian and Western leaders remain critical of Russia's actions, viewing them as attempts to delay peace and maintain territorial gains.