Drone Strikes in Ukraine’s Kherson Region Heighten Tensions During Peace Talks Between Kyiv, Moscow and Washington

KYIV, Ukraine — A deadly series of drone strikes in the Kherson region of Russian-occupied Ukraine has intensified an already fraught environment as diplomatic efforts continue to seek an end to nearly four years of conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Russian authorities reported that several Ukrainian drones struck civilian locations — including a café and hotel in the Black Sea resort town of Khorly — during New Year celebrations, killing at least 24 people and injuring dozens more. Moscow’s statements claimed one drone carried an incendiary payload, igniting serious fires and prompting criticism of Kyiv’s military tactics. Ukrainian officials have not confirmed responsibility for the attack, and independent verification of civilian casualties remains unclear.

The report comes at a pivotal moment in peace negotiations that involve Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and U.S. officials including President Donald Trump. Ukrainian leaders maintain that strikes by their forces are aimed solely at legitimate Russian military and strategic targets — a claim Ukraine insists remains consistent with international law. Kyiv has also denied targeting President Putin’s residences despite repeated Russian allegations to the contrary.

U.S. intelligence, including assessments from the CIA, has reinforced Ukraine’s position, indicating there was no evidence Kyiv attempted to assassinate Putin in the alleged drone operation near one of his country residences — contradicting the Kremlin’s narrative and adding complexity to diplomatic messaging.

Despite the violence, the peace process continues to move forward. Zelenskyy and U.S. representatives have reported that a peace framework is largely complete, though key issues — especially territorial control in the Donbas and security guarantees — remain significant obstacles. Officials from both sides are preparing for future negotiations in Europe, including talks supported by French and other NATO allies.

The drone incidents and conflicting claims highlight the fragile balance between military escalation and diplomatic engagement. Both Ukraine and Russia are under pressure to show progress toward resolving the conflict, yet recurring hostilities demonstrate how delicate and uncertain the path to peace remains.