• Russia launched missile and drone strikes on Kyiv, resulting in at least nine fatalities.
• Attacks occurred on the eve of a NATO summit in Turkey, where key discussions are planned.
• Ukrainian President Zelensky warned of a potential new large-scale attack from Russia.

In a recent escalation, Russia launched a fresh wave of missile and drone attacks on Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, resulting in at least nine deaths and numerous injuries. The assaults took place on the eve of a NATO summit in Turkey, where Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to meet with US President Donald Trump. This wave of attacks underscores the intensified military operations as both Ukraine and Russia increase their long-range strikes amid ongoing conflict, marking a significant moment just before high-stakes diplomatic discussions. The Ukrainian air force reported the use of ballistic missiles and drones by Russia, causing significant destruction in the capital according to Indiatimes and Le Monde.

The missile strikes led to fires breaking out in residential areas and complicated rescue efforts, with authorities confirming 46 injuries, including five children. Zelensky had warned of this potential assault, indicating a "massive strike" was being prepared by Russia after previous attacks left significant casualties, including at least 30 fatalities. The strikes targeted not only civilian areas but also facilities that had been used in Ukraine's own offensive against Russian military infrastructure, raising concerns about the tactics used by Moscow in this ongoing war, as highlighted by South China Morning Post and BBC.

Amid these developments, U.S. officials confirmed that Trump would engage with Zelensky on Wednesday at the NATO summit, looking to revive stalled diplomatic efforts to bring an end to the conflict. Discussions are crucial as both leaders aim to address the ongoing war and explore methods for peace, further complicating the geopolitical landscape, according to reports from Indiatimes and Le Monde.

As the situation evolves, Ukraine continues to respond with strikes against targets within Russia, focusing on energy facilities to undermine Moscow's war capabilities. The authorities in Kyiv emphasize the urgency of securing military aid and necessary weaponry, with Zelensky advocating for immediate support from NATO allies to defend against future attacks, as noted by South China Morning Post and BBC.