Russia Escalates Attacks as Ukraine Pursues Peace Talks with Trump

While Zelenskyy negotiated security guarantees with U.S. envoys on February 25–26, Russia unleashed one of its heaviest bombardments yet: 420 drones and 39 missiles. The timing is no accident. Moscow consistently intensifies military pressure during diplomatic talks. For Ukraine, the challenge is stark: maintain air defenses and combat operations while navigating the war's most delicate negotiations.