Russian forces launched a new wave of intense attacks across Ukraine, employing both missiles and drones, the Ukrainian military announced Wednesday. According to reports, Ukrainian air defenses struggled to intercept the incoming fire, with authorities stating that while 72 drones were downed, at least 10 missiles and drones evaded interception.
In Zaporizhzhia, southeastern Ukraine, local officials reported that 21 civilians were injured, some critically, as a result of Russian airstrikes and drone attacks. The region reportedly endured over 700 drone strikes in a single day. DZWatch is closely monitoring the situation as it unfolds.
Further south in Kherson, local authorities stated that continuous Russian shelling, utilizing tanks, drones, and artillery, targeted residential areas and critical infrastructure. This sustained bombardment has resulted in widespread damage to vital infrastructure. The situation on the ground remains tense as residents grapple with the ongoing attacks.
Kharkiv, located in northeastern Ukraine, also experienced intense missile strikes, according to local authorities. The strikes reportedly targeted power stations and other essential facilities. There are growing concerns that attacks on the energy infrastructure will intensify as winter approaches.
Politically, the Kremlin announced Wednesday that Steve Witkow, Special Envoy of U.S. President Donald Trump, will visit Moscow next week. He will be accompanied by a high-level delegation from the U.S. administration to discuss a potential peace plan for Ukraine.
President Trump, speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, indicated that there has been “progress” in talks with Moscow and Kyiv. He claimed that Russia has agreed to “some concessions,” without elaborating on the specifics. Washington recently proposed a preliminary framework for ending the war, which sparked concern in Kyiv and European capitals over the possibility of pushing Ukraine into an agreement that might favor Moscow.
Yuri Ushakov, Foreign Policy Advisor to Russian President Vladimir Putin, confirmed that a preliminary agreement had been reached for Witkow’s visit, adding that the U.S. envoy would be accompanied by officials specializing in Ukrainian affairs. The visit is viewed as a critical step in ongoing diplomatic efforts.
