Ukraine, Russia trade strikes as US-backed talks resume

Ukraine, Russia trade strikes as US-backed talks resume

Casualties were reported across both Russia and Ukraine, with US-brokered discussions continuing on Sunday. The conflict escalated as thousands in Chernihiv faced power outages, and several lives were lost in attacks on both sides. The strikes occurred amid ongoing talks in Miami, where Ukrainian and US delegates aimed to rekindle efforts to conclude the war.

Saturday’s incidents saw multiple fatalities in Russia and Ukraine, with the latter reporting four deaths from Russian strikes. The northern region of Chernihiv was left without electricity, while a strike on Zaporizhzhia resulted in two deaths and six injuries, according to local authorities. Neighboring Dnipropetrovsk also recorded two fatalities and five wounded individuals. Russian officials countered by stating that Ukrainian shelling in the Belgorod border area had caused at least two deaths and one injury.

“The talks are constructive, part of ongoing mediation efforts to narrow and resolve remaining items toward a comprehensive peace agreement,” said US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted the importance of the dialogue, stating on X that the sessions “will continue discussion” on Sunday. He emphasized the need to assess Russia’s readiness for a genuine end to the war, adding that heightened global tensions due to the US-Israeli conflict with Iran had shifted focus away from Ukraine.

Despite Trump’s initial pledge to end the war early in his presidency, his administration has shown diminished engagement. Multiple rounds of negotiations late last year and earlier this year failed to secure a ceasefire. Western allies accuse the Trump administration of leaning too heavily toward Russia, particularly after a draft agreement proposed ceding territory under Kyiv’s control.

Zelenskyy’s primary goal in meeting US representatives was to sustain trilateral talks with Russia and ensure European partners could continue purchasing American arms. However, Russia has prioritized territorial gains, using the war to bolster its position in negotiations. The conflict also benefits Russia economically, as rising oil and gas prices have increased demand for its fuel, supported by temporary US sanctions waivers.

Meanwhile, Ukraine awaits a €90-billion aid package from the EU, delayed by Hungary’s Viktor Orban. To view the video, JavaScript must be enabled, and a browser supporting HTML5 video is required.