Russia has conducted one of its most intense attacks on Ukraine in weeks, launching 574 drones and 40 missiles, according to Ukrainian authorities. A drone and missile strike on Lviv killed one person, while an attack on Transcarpathia wounded 15 others. These events coincided with US President Donald Trump’s diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha emphasized the importance of such initiatives, citing the latest strikes. President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed readiness to meet Russia’s Vladimir Putin in neutral locations such as Switzerland or Austria, though not ruling out Istanbul.
Zelensky indicated willingness for talks in any format but dismissed Budapest as a venue due to current complexities. This follows Trump’s meeting with Putin in Alaska, after hosting Zelensky and European leaders in Washington. Initially, Trump proposed trilateral talks but later suggested a direct meeting between Zelensky and Putin might be more effective.
Ukraine’s air force reported intercepting 577 of 614 drones and missiles fired by Russia, marking the largest air attack since July. While Russian assaults typically target eastern areas, this attack also struck western regions.
Since Russia’s 2022 full-scale invasion, it occupies much of eastern Ukraine, including parts of the Donbas, and maintains control over Crimea since 2014. Sybiha mentioned the use of various missiles in the latest assault.
Western regions, like Lviv, faced significant damage, with over 20 civilian structures, including homes and a nursery, damaged, leading to three injuries. In Mukachevo, Transcarpathia, 15 were injured in a missile strike on a US electronics firm.
Sybiha shared on social media about damages and casualties at a major American electronics manufacturer in the west, where coffee machines and household products are made. Zelensky pointed out the lack of genuine negotiation intent from Moscow. He also expressed reservations about Budapest as a potential negotiation site due to Hungary’s ties with Russia.
Despite suggestions from Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto offering Budapest as a site for talks, Zelensky cited issues with Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s policies.
Russian forces are reportedly concentrating in Zaporizhzhia, one of four Ukrainian regions Russia claims. Zelensky noted troop movements from Kursk to Zaporizhzhia. Ukraine reported hitting a Russian oil refinery in Rostov and a drone depot in Donetsk, among other targets.
The front lines remain mostly unchanged with minor territorial shifts. As ground combat stagnates, Russia has increased aerial attacks, particularly during intensified diplomatic efforts. Ukraine’s largest aerial assault occurred in early July, with 728 strikes in waves. Following recent attacks, Sybiha reiterated the need for more air defense support from allies.