Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia of pathological deception after Moscow launched a devastating missile and drone attack on civilian energy infrastructure just hours after concluding high-stakes talks with the U.S. in Riyadh. The assault, which occurred during subzero temperatures, left Odessa residents without electricity, heat, or water amid winter conditions.
Russia cannot be trusted,Zelenskyy declared on social media, emphasizing that the barrage directly contradicted Russian claims of avoiding energy targets. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted 106 of 167 drones and both ballistic missiles fired overnight.
The U.S.-Russia discussions marked the first major diplomatic engagement since the 2022 invasion, though Ukraine's exclusion drew sharp criticism. Former President Trump exacerbated tensions by claiming Kyiv could have prevented the war through earlier negotiations with Moscow. You've had three years to end this, Trump stated, dismissing concerns about Ukraine's absence from peace talks.
Key developments complicating negotiations:
- Russia insists on maintaining occupied Ukrainian territories
- Zelenskyy refuses pre-invasion boundary ultimatums
- U.S. appoints envoy Keith Kellogg for European mediation
With thermometers dipping to -6°C (21°F), the latest attacks amplify humanitarian risks as Kyiv scrambles to repair critical infrastructure. Analysts warn that Riyadh talks may legitimize Moscow's demands unless Ukraine gains equal representation in future diplomatic frameworks.
