Russian attacks on Kyiv and Kharkiv killed at least one person and wounded 15 others, damaging homes even as Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed openness to a free trade zone proposal. The strikes on residential areas occurred while economic and political solutions were being explored.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko issued emergency warnings that the capital faced a “massive enemy attack,” directing residents to remain in shelters. The bombardment hit residential buildings, causing casualties and extensive damage. Heat and water services were knocked offline in several neighborhoods, affecting thousands of civilians.
In Kharkiv, Iranian-made Shahed drones attacked multiple residential complexes, as confirmed by Mayor Igor Terekhov. The drone strikes caused widespread damage to homes, demonstrating Russia’s continued targeting of civilian residential areas. The northeastern city has endured repeated bombardment throughout the war.
In Abu Dhabi, negotiators from Russia, Ukraine, and the United States engaged in two-day talks described by the UAE foreign ministry as efforts “to promote dialogue and identify political solutions to the crisis.” President Zelensky expressed openness to establishing a free trade zone under Ukraine’s control in the country’s east, offering an economic approach to conflict resolution.
Ukrainian President Zelensky suggested that peace proposals were “nearly ready” following his meeting with President Trump. He stated the free trade zone proposal “will be positive for our business,” indicating economic incentives could supplement political negotiations. President Putin engaged separately with Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.