Zelensky peace plan for Ukraine tested after deadly Kyiv attack

Kyiv came under one of its heaviest attacks in months overnight, just as President Volodymyr Zelensky prepares to present a new peace roadmap to the United States. The assault, involving hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles, underscored the fragile moment facing diplomacy and cast fresh doubt over Moscow’s willingness to end the war.

The Zelensky peace plan for Ukraine now moves forward against the backdrop of civilian deaths, shattered homes, and widespread power disruptions in the capital.

What happened in Kyiv

Russian forces launched a sustained 10-hour barrage on Kyiv, firing nearly 500 drones and around 40 missiles, according to Ukrainian officials. The attack killed at least two people and injured 32 others across the city.

Ukraine’s emergency services reported extensive damage to apartment buildings, retirement homes, and critical energy facilities. Nearly 40% of residential buildings in Kyiv and nearby districts lost heating during sub-zero temperatures.

Photos from the capital showed burning high-rise buildings and shattered facades. A residential block housing BBC journalist Anastasiya Gribanova was struck, igniting fires on its upper floors. She escaped unharmed.

Russia’s defence ministry confirmed targeting energy infrastructure, claiming the facilities supported Ukraine’s military operations. Ukrainian officials rejected that claim, saying civilians bore the brunt of the strikes.

Zelensky’s response and peace message

President Zelensky condemned the assault, saying the attack proved Russia “doesn’t want peace.” Writing on Telegram, he accused Moscow of speaking about negotiations while communicating through missiles and drones.

“The Daggers and Shaheds are speaking louder than words,” Zelensky wrote, referring to Russian missiles and Iranian-made drones.

The Ukrainian leader made the comments while traveling to Florida, where he is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump. The talks will focus on a newly drafted Zelensky peace plan for Ukraine, developed with American and Ukrainian envoys.

The plan reportedly contains 20 points aimed at freezing hostilities, restoring territorial integrity, and securing international guarantees for Ukraine’s safety.

Why this matters

The timing of the Kyiv attack is critical. It comes just days before renewed diplomatic efforts and risks undermining fragile momentum toward talks.

For Ukraine, the strikes highlight the urgency of securing stronger air defence systems and firmer commitments from allies. Zelensky urged the US, Europe, and partners to respond with “real strength,” warning that hesitation only emboldens further aggression.

For global diplomacy, the attack raises doubts over Russia’s intentions. While Moscow has publicly engaged in discussions, the escalation on the ground suggests pressure tactics rather than compromise.

The violence also has regional implications. Poland scrambled fighter jets and activated air defence systems amid fears the attack could spill across borders. Although no airspace violation occurred, the incident showed how quickly the conflict could widen.

Impact on civilians and infrastructure

Beyond the immediate casualties, the attack deepened Ukraine’s humanitarian crisis. Dozens of elderly residents were evacuated from a retirement home in Kyiv’s Darnytskyi district.

Energy damage left families without heat during freezing conditions, forcing the government to deploy emergency repairs. Officials warned that repeated strikes on power infrastructure could strain the system further as winter continues.

The attack also reignited concerns about war fatigue among civilians, many of whom have endured months of intermittent blackouts and air raid sirens.

Russia’s position and counterclaims

Russia said its air defence systems intercepted nearly 200 Ukrainian drones overnight across multiple regions, including near Moscow. The Kremlin framed its actions as defensive and accused Ukraine of escalating attacks.

However, independent analysts note that the scale and duration of the Kyiv strike suggest a deliberate attempt to apply political pressure ahead of peace discussions.

What happens next

The immediate focus now shifts to Washington. Zelensky’s meeting with President Trump could shape the next phase of the war, especially if the Zelensky peace plan for Ukraine gains American backing.

Diplomats expect discussions on security guarantees, military aid, and enforcement mechanisms to dominate the agenda. Any public endorsement from the US would increase pressure on Moscow while reassuring European allies.

On the battlefield, Ukraine remains on high alert. Air defence units continue to brace for further strikes, and authorities warn that more attacks on energy targets remain likely.

For civilians in Kyiv, the priority is survival and stability. For global leaders, the coming days may determine whether diplomacy regains momentum—or whether the war enters an even more dangerous phase.