25/01/2026
Ukraine and Russia prepare for more face-to-face talks as Russia hits Kyiv and Kharkiv during negotiations
U.S.-mediated trilateral talks between Ukraine, Russia, and the United States ended without a peace deal but set up another round of direct meetings. As diplomacy continued, Russia launched heavy drone and missile strikes on Kyiv and Kharkiv, damaging infrastructure and leaving large numbers without power in freezing temperatures.
- Published
- Revised
Talks continue even as attacks escalate
Ukraine and Russia are set to hold further face-to-face negotiations after U.S.-mediated trilateral meetings in Abu Dhabi were described as a meaningful step forward by American officials. The talks ended without a peace agreement, but both sides indicated there would be another round, keeping the diplomatic channel open despite the war grinding on.
At the same time, Russia launched a large-scale drone and missile assault on Ukraine’s major cities. Strikes on Kyiv and Kharkiv injured civilians, killed at least one person, and hit critical infrastructure. Ukrainian officials framed the timing of the bombardment as an attempt to sabotage diplomacy, while Russia continued to apply battlefield pressure in parallel with negotiations.
Power outages and winter conditions raise the humanitarian stakes
The attacks left extensive damage and widespread power disruptions. Reports described hundreds of drones and missiles used in the barrage and significant outages across Kyiv, with temperatures deep below freezing. The combination of infrastructure damage and winter weather increased the immediate risk for residents, including those relying on electricity for heating and essential services.
Despite the violence, diplomatic efforts remained active, with discussion focusing on what a pathway to a pause in fighting could look like and what security guarantees might be needed to prevent renewed aggression. The talks’ continuation suggests neither side wants to fully close off negotiation—yet the battlefield reality indicates any political settlement remains distant.
Key questions going into the next meeting
- Will the next round of talks produce a limited agreement—such as on prisoner exchanges, humanitarian corridors, or infrastructure protections—even if a broader peace deal is out of reach?
- Can the U.S. maintain leverage with both parties while allies debate long-term guarantees for Ukraine?
- How will ongoing strikes and territorial fighting shape the negotiating positions on contested regions?