Russian attacks kill 4 in Ukraine as Moscow and Kyiv prepare for visit by US envoys

Four people were killed in separate Russian attacks in Ukraine on Friday night, as Moscow and Kyiv prepare for a U.S. envoy visit aimed at rekindling peace talks. The planned arrival of U.S. representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who is also President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, is seen as a potential catalyst for negotiations amid the ongoing aerial conflict.

Russia and Ukraine have engaged in a protracted air war, with the front line stretching over 1,250 kilometers (775 miles). Moscow has recently stepped up its use of fast-flying jet-powered drones, which have forced residents of Kyiv to endure the regular sound of air-raid sirens.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy issued a statement on Friday, pledging to cease air strikes during the U.S. envoy's visit and urging Russia to do the same. He emphasized the need for a safe passage for negotiators, stating that Ukraine would work to maintain normal operations in Russian airspace.

Despite the truce appeal, Russian attacks struck within hours of Zelenskyy's announcement. In the southern Dnipropetrovsk region, four people lost their lives and five were injured, with damage reported at an industrial facility and in Nikopol district. Local military administration head Oleksandr Hanzha confirmed the casualties and damages.

In response, Russia's Ministry of Defense announced on Saturday that it had targeted two metallurgical plants in the region, describing them as key suppliers for Ukraine's military manufacturing.