Ukraine's 343-Drone Attack on Moscow Kills 2, Injures 18 Before U.S. Talks on Black Sea Ceasefire, Minerals Deal

Ukraine launched a significant drone attack on Moscow, marking the largest such assault since the onset of the war with Russia. The attack, which saw 343 drones shot down, including 126 over the Kursk region and 91 over Moscow, occurred hours before scheduled peace talks between Ukrainian and U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia, aimed at discussing ways to end the three-year conflict. Russian air defenses reported the attack resulted in the deaths of two people and injuries to 18 others, including three children. Residential buildings were hit, and four airports were temporarily closed due to the assault. In response, Russia launched a ballistic missile and 126 drones at Ukraine. The peace talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, involve senior officials from both Ukraine and the U.S., including U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz. Ukrainian officials such as Andriy Yermak and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov are part of the delegation. The discussions are critical for Ukraine, which seeks to mend relations with the Trump administration following a recent dispute and to end the suspension of U.S. military aid and intelligence sharing. Ukraine plans to propose a ceasefire covering the Black Sea during the talks, aiming for safer shipping and the release of prisoners. Additionally, Ukraine is ready to sign an agreement with the U.S. on access to rare earth minerals, a deal sought by President Donald Trump. The attack on Moscow may influence the atmosphere of these negotiations, as it underscores the ongoing hostilities.