Moscow experienced a large-scale drone attack, with Russia downing 337 UAVs. This occurred prior to U.S.-Ukraine ceasefire talks in Jeddah, where Kyiv is expected to propose a monitored partial ceasefire. President Zelenskyy emphasizes the need for security guarantees in any agreement. The Biden administration calls for concessions from Ukraine, amidst continuing military exchanges.
On the night preceding U.S.-Ukraine negotiations, Moscow experienced a significant drone assault, marking one of the largest cross-border aerial attacks since Russia’s invasion began in 2022. The Russian Defense Ministry reported the shooting down of 337 Ukrainian drones across ten regions, with Mayor Sergei Sobyanin noting intense defensive actions in the capital, where 91 drones were intercepted.
The drone barrage resulted in casualties in Moscow, with reports indicating at least two fatalities and eight injuries, according to Governor Andrei Vorobyov. Additionally, several residential buildings and businesses suffered damage from the drone attacks or debris. Consequently, flights were suspended across all four of Moscow’s airports as well as airports in nearby Yaroslavl and Nizhny Novgorod.
As the drone strikes unfolded, officials in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, prepared for U.S.-Ukraine ceasefire discussions. The Biden administration is urging Ukraine to make essential concessions aimed at achieving a peace accord to conclude Russia’s ongoing invasion, including agreement on a minerals-sharing pact framed as a means to recoup U.S. aid.
Ukraine’s stance remains firm, asserting that no agreement will be accepted without substantial security guarantees to deter future Russian aggression. The administration of former President Donald Trump has criticized both Ukraine and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, inaccurately suggesting they initiated the conflict while promoting narratives supportive of Moscow.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, participating in the negotiations, emphasized that Ukraine must show readiness to make tough decisions. He acknowledged that Russia would also need to undertake significant concessions, although no specifics were provided regarding Russian demands. Recent months have seen U.S. and Russian negotiators meet in Riyadh to discuss the ongoing conflict.
President Zelenskyy visited Saudi Arabia recently for discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman about the war, stressing the importance of conditions for peace, including prisoner releases and security guarantees. Although not participating in the Tuesday talks, Zelenskyy anticipated a practical outcome from the U.S.-Ukraine delegation meeting.
A source close to Zelenskyy indicated that Ukraine would propose a monitored partial ceasefire, specifically regarding long-range air strikes and maritime attacks, though the duration of such a truce remains undefined. Rubio expressed cautious optimism regarding this proposal, acknowledging its potential as a necessary concession towards conflict resolution.
The negotiations also include discussions on a mineral deal, which, while not the primary focus, is still important according to Rubio. Amid these diplomatic efforts, drone and missile exchanges between Ukraine and Russia continue unabated, with Ukraine’s air force reporting intercepted threats, including drones and ballistic missiles, affecting multiple regions within Ukraine.
In summary, Moscow has faced a significant drone barrage from Ukraine amidst ongoing diplomatic negotiations for a ceasefire. The Russian Defense Ministry reported extensive drone interceptions, while U.S.-Ukraine talks are set to address potential concessions and security guarantees. President Zelenskyy remains committed to ensuring Ukraine’s position is constructive, as discussions of a proposed partial ceasefire are explored, keeping the focus on achieving a lasting and secure peace.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
