Russia kills three in Ukraine before US diplomatic talks

Early Saturday, a drone attack carried out by Russian forces resulted in the deaths of at least three people in Ukraines capital and caused injuries to at least 29 others, according to reports from The Associated Press. Kyiv authorities confirmed that two fatalities occurred within the city, while the third was reported in the surrounding region.

The assault involved both missiles and drones, highlighting the ongoing threat faced by civilians. The strikes coincided with ongoing diplomatic efforts involving leaders from Moscow, Kyiv, and support from the United States to bring an end to the conflict that has persisted in Eastern Europe for more than three years.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on the social platform X that the Ukrainian delegation was expected to arrive in the United States by Saturday evening. He emphasized that the dialogue based on the Geneva points will continue and affirmed that diplomatic engagement remains active.

On Sunday, Ukrainian officials are scheduled to meet with a U.S. delegation including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, special envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner, a senior advisor, a U.S. official told NewsNation. Meanwhile, another U.S. team plans to hold discussions in Moscow with Russian President Vladimir Putin next week.

Concerns have emerged regarding the neutrality of the peace process, following reports that Witkoff was advising Russian officials on negotiating strategies. Some lawmakers have expressed skepticism about the negotiations fairness. Representative Don Bacon (R-Neb.), an outspoken supporter of Ukraine, criticized Witkoffs role, stating he cannot be trusted to lead these negotiations.

Despite concerns that the proposed talks could favor Russia, President Zelensky reaffirmed Ukraines commitment to pursuing diplomacy. He highlighted the constructive role of the American side and noted that, in the coming days, it would be possible to outline steps toward a dignified resolution to the conflict. The Ukrainian delegation has the necessary directives, and I expect the team to act in accordance with clear Ukrainian priorities, he wrote in his Saturday post.

Author: Sophia Brooks