RUSSIAN FORCES RESUME KYIV STRIKES AFTER THREE-DAY PAUSE

Russian forces have resumed aerial attacks on Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, following the expiration of a three-day halt that coincided with diplomatic visits by senior United States envoys seeking to advance efforts toward ending the war. Explosions were reported across Kyiv early Tuesday, with Ukrainian authorities saying missiles and drones struck several parts of the city and surrounding areas. The renewed assault came shortly after US President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, concluded meetings with Russian and Ukrainian officials.

The attacks caused damage to residential and civilian infrastructure, including buildings in several Kyiv districts. Ukrainian authorities initially reported at least two deaths and several injuries, while emergency workers were deployed to damaged locations and residents were urged to remain in shelters during the air raid alerts. Ukraine’s Air Force said it intercepted a large number of incoming drones and cruise missiles, although ballistic missiles remained particularly difficult to stop.

The renewed strikes followed a temporary suspension ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin as the US delegation travelled between Moscow and Kyiv. Witkoff and Kushner met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow before holding talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv. Following the discussions, Witkoff described the talks as meaningful and substantive, while raising the possibility of reviving three-way negotiations involving Russia, Ukraine and the United States.

Despite the diplomatic engagement, the resumption of attacks highlights the difficulties facing efforts to secure a broader ceasefire. Russian and Ukrainian forces continued fighting in other areas even during the three-day pause affecting the two capitals. Ukrainian officials have also warned that continued attacks could pose a major threat to energy infrastructure as winter approaches, increasing pressure on Western allies to provide additional air-defence and energy support.

The latest escalation comes as Washington seeks to bring both sides back to a negotiating table after more than four years of full-scale war. US officials have expressed optimism about possible next steps, but the renewed strikes demonstrate that significant disagreements remain between Moscow and Kyiv. The White House is expected to announce further developments in the coming weeks as diplomatic efforts continue.