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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned Russian drone strikes that injured 14 people, including a family with three young children, in Okhtyrka, Sumy region. The attacks occurred overnight on August 20.
Russia and Ukraine continue to exchange daily attacks despite recent meetings between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which were meant to advance peace talks aimed at ending the conflict.
Why It Matters
Zelensky met with Trump and other European leaders at the White House on Monday to discuss potential peace talks with Putin. The full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia began in February 2022. World leaders have long sought a deal to end the bloody conflict, but Zelensky and Putin remain divided on key points needed for a ceasefire.
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Trump met Putin in Alaska and raised the prospect of a trilateral meeting involving Zelensky. Russian officials are willing to continue direct negotiations, but no full agreement on meeting parameters has been confirmed yet.
The persistent Russian attacks underscore that both Zelensky and his European allies believe a ceasefire is necessary for peace talks to commence. Trump dismissed the importance of a ceasefire after his talks with Putin last week, instead signaling openness to some security guarantees for Ukraine.
Zelensky also reported damage from a glide bomb in Kostiantynivka, where at least three people remain under rubble. He mentioned a “treacherous strike” on a gas distribution station in the Odesa region and shelling targeting Chernihiv, Kharkiv, and Poltava regions. More than 60 drones and one ballistic missile were used.
The Ukrainian leader stated that these strikes confirm the need to pressure Moscow with new sanctions until diplomacy is fully effective. He thanked partners helping to end the Russian war and emphasized the need for strong security guarantees for lasting peace.
There was no immediate comment from the Russian military on the latest attacks.
What People Are Saying
William Taylor, a former U.S. ambassador to Ukraine, told CNN that Putin has no interest in sitting down with Zelensky or ending the war but wants to take over Ukraine and continue bombing it until he gets what he wants.
What Happens Next
Trump set a two-week timeline for determining diplomatic progress, stating both sides will soon know “whether or not we’re going to solve this or is this horrible fighting going to continue.”
Update: This article has been updated with additional information.
