Russian attacks using Iranian technology killed at least one person and wounded 15 others in Kyiv and Kharkiv, even as a diplomatic window appeared to open in Abu Dhabi. The strikes employed Iranian-made drones while negotiators worked to seize a potential opportunity for peace.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko issued emergency warnings that the capital faced a “massive enemy attack,” instructing residents to seek shelter. The bombardment targeted residential buildings, resulting in casualties and extensive damage. Heat and water services were knocked offline in several neighborhoods, creating additional hardships for civilians.
Mayor Igor Terekhov confirmed that Kharkiv faced attacks using Iranian technology, specifically Iranian-manufactured Shahed drones, which damaged multiple residential complexes. The use of Iranian military technology highlighted the international dimensions of the conflict. The northeastern city has faced relentless bombardment throughout the war.
Despite the violence involving Iranian technology, a diplomatic window appeared to open with American, Russian, and Ukrainian representatives meeting in Abu Dhabi. The UAE foreign ministry stated the two-day talks were part of “ongoing efforts to promote dialogue and identify political solutions to the crisis.” President Zelensky announced that peace proposals were “nearly ready,” suggesting the diplomatic window might yield results.
Ukrainian President Zelensky proposed creating a free trade zone in eastern Ukraine under Kyiv’s control following his meeting with President Trump. He suggested economic solutions could complement political negotiations. President Putin met with Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, as all parties worked to capitalize on the diplomatic window.