2 dead as Ukrainian drone attack hits southwestern Russia

As efforts to end the war in Ukraine continue, a Ukrainian drone attack resulted in two deaths in southwestern Russia on Saturday. The attack occurred as Moscow launched drone and missile strikes targeting Ukrainian power infrastructure. These events unfold ahead of planned talks in Berlin involving senior officials from the U.S. and Europe.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that meetings involving Ukrainian, U.S., and European representatives will take place in Berlin in the coming days. He also stated his intention to meet personally with envoys of former U.S. President Donald Trump.

"Most importantly, I will be meeting with envoys of President Trump, and there will also be meetings with our European partners, with many leaders, concerning the foundation of peace — a political agreement to end the war," Zelenskyy said in a public address Saturday night.

According to a White House official speaking anonymously, Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law Jared Kushner are expected to participate in the Berlin talks.

For months, U.S. officials have been working to reconcile the demands of both sides, as Trump has pushed for a swift resolution to the conflict. The search for compromises has faced significant hurdles, notably concerning control of the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine, which is largely under Russian occupation.

Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of these discussions, stating, "The chance is considerable at this moment, and it matters for our every city, for our every Ukrainian community. We are working to ensure that peace for Ukraine is."