Russia Launches Fresh Missile, Drone Attacks on Ukraine, Killing Four Ahead of Key Peace Talks

At least four people have been killed after Russia launched a fresh wave of overnight drone and missile attacks across several parts of Ukraine, just a day before international leaders are expected to meet in Paris for talks aimed at increasing pressure on Moscow to end the war.

Ukrainian authorities said the coordinated strikes targeted multiple regions, extending a conflict that has continued for more than four years.

According to regional officials, the central Dnipropetrovsk region suffered some of the deadliest attacks.

Officials said three people lost their lives in the region, with two of the victims killed after a Russian strike hit an industrial facility in the city of Kryvyi Rih. Another civilian was reported dead elsewhere in the region.

In southern Ukraine, authorities said a separate drone strike struck the city of Kherson, where a 48-year-old resident was killed.

Kherson Mayor Yaroslav Shanko confirmed the death, describing the attack as another strike on an area populated by civilians.

The latest bombardment comes as diplomatic efforts to find a path toward ending the conflict continue.

International representatives are expected to gather in Paris for discussions focused on increasing pressure on Russia and exploring options to move the war closer to a negotiated settlement.

Meanwhile, the United States has approved plans allowing Ukraine to begin producing U.S.-designed Patriot air defence systems locally.

The Patriot system is regarded as one of the world’s most advanced air defence platforms and is capable of intercepting ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and hostile aircraft.

Security analysts believe expanding Ukraine’s air defence production could strengthen the country’s ability to respond to continued Russian missile and drone attacks.

The latest escalation underscores the ongoing intensity of the conflict despite renewed diplomatic efforts, with civilians continuing to bear the brunt of the fighting.