Russia launches major attack on Ukraine ahead of Trump–Zelensky meeting, Kyiv shaken by missile and drone strikes

Kyiv (The Uttam Hindu): Just ahead of the crucial meeting scheduled on Sunday between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Russia carried out a major attack on Ukraine. On Saturday, Russia launched large-scale missile and drone strikes on the capital city Kyiv, triggering panic across the city. So far, no casualties have been officially confirmed.

Kyiv plunged into darkness, power supply disrupted

Following the intense attacks, widespread power outages were reported in Kyiv, leaving large parts of the capital without electricity. The strikes came only hours after President Zelensky told US media outlet Axios that Ukraine would be “ready” to hold a referendum on Trump’s peace plan if Russia agreed to a 60-day ceasefire.

Zelensky said that most points of the US–Ukraine agreement have already been agreed upon and documented in five papers. He added that security guarantees are also close to being finalised.

Pressure tactic on Kyiv?

Political analysts believe the timing of the attack just a day before the Trump–Zelensky meeting could be part of a strategy to increase pressure on Ukraine and push Kyiv to accept most of Russia’s conditions. Zelensky has made it clear that a minimum 60-day ceasefire is necessary to conduct any legitimate referendum, while reports suggest Russia is demanding a shorter truce period. Amid this backdrop, Russia began missile and drone strikes on Kyiv and other regions early Saturday, though Ukraine’s air defence systems remained active.

Trump’s peace plan nearly ready

President Zelensky is set to meet President Trump at Mar-a-Lago in Florida on Sunday, where regional issues and security guarantees will be discussed. According to reports, the draft of Trump’s 20-point peace plan is nearly 90 percent complete, although differences remain over the Donbas region.