Russia Strikes Ukraine Before Zelenskiy-Trump Meeting
Russia launched a fresh round of missile and drone attacks against Ukraine’s capital Kyiv and other regions on 27 December 2025, just days before Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is scheduled to meet U.S. President Donald Trump in Florida to discuss peace negotiations aimed at ending the nearly four-year war.
The strikes triggered air-raid alerts and activated Ukraine’s air-defence systems as explosions were reported across Kyiv and surrounding areas. Ukrainian officials said several people were wounded in the bombardment. Russia did not immediately comment on the attacks.
Regional Impact and Security Response
The renewed assault affected broader areas of Ukraine and also prompted temporary closures of two airports in southeastern Poland after fighter jets were scrambled in response to heightened regional security concerns. Polish authorities later reopened the airports once military operations ended.
Ukraine’s military and civil defence reported that drones and missiles targeted the capital early on Saturday, with air raid warnings continuing for hours. Emergency services and residents responded to explosions and damage in multiple districts.
Diplomatic Context and Peace Efforts
The offensive comes just ahead of a high-level meeting expected this weekend between Zelenskiy and Trump, part of ongoing efforts to negotiate a framework to halt the conflict that began with Russia’s invasion in February 2022. Zelenskiy has indicated that discussions will focus on territorial control and security guarantees, with a proposed 20-point peace plan reportedly nearing completion. The timing of the strikes is seen as a challenge to diplomatic momentum, underscoring the fragility of the ceasefire and peace process.
