What recent action did Russia take before the peace talks?

Russia launched a large-scale attack on Ukraine, targeting energy infrastructure just before the new round of peace talks.

Why is this attack significant?

The attack is seen as an attempt to undermine ongoing peace efforts in Geneva, raising tensions ahead of negotiations.

Who is involved in the peace talks?

The peace talks involve representatives from Russia and Ukraine, with mediation from the United States.

What are the main issues being discussed in the talks?

The main issue is the territorial disputes, particularly concerning the eastern Donetsk region.

What has been the reaction from Ukraine regarding the attacks?

Ukraine has condemned the attacks as a clear disregard for peace efforts and has rejected Russia's territorial demands.

Moscow Launches Large-Scale Attack Before Peace Talks with Ukraine

In a notable escalation ahead of a new round of Russian-Ukrainian talks, Russia launched a large-scale attack on Ukraine today, Tuesday, targeting energy infrastructure facilities, according to the Russian Ministry of Defense and reported by TASS.

Kyiv stated that dozens of missiles and drones were launched at its territory, considering the attack a clear attempt to undermine the peace efforts being made in Geneva under American mediation.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha posted a strongly worded message on social media:

"How far does Russia ignore peace efforts: a large-scale missile and drone attack on Ukraine, just before the next round of negotiations in Geneva."

These strikes come ahead of peace talks that will continue today and tomorrow in Geneva, which are expected to focus on the issue of territory, the main point of contention between the two sides.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov clarified that the aim this time is to discuss "a large number of issues, including the core issues related to territory and everything connected to Russian demands."

Russia demands that Ukraine concede about 20% of the remaining eastern Donetsk region that Russian forces have not been able to control, which Kyiv rejects.

In contrast, U.S. President Donald Trump is pressuring Moscow and Kyiv to reach an agreement to end the largest war in Europe since 1945, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky complains about the increasing pressure on his country to make concessions.

Previous rounds of talks were hosted in Abu Dhabi and were considered "constructive," but did not lead to any tangible progress.

The current round comes just days before the fourth anniversary of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, increasing its sensitivity and heightening tensions.