Russian Drone Strikes Kill One, Injure Dozens Across Ukraine Following Istanbul Talks
Just hours after peace talks between Ukrainian and Russian delegations concluded in Istanbul without progress, Russia unleashed a coordinated wave of overnight drone strikes across several Ukrainian cities, killing at least one person and injuring dozens.
The Gaze reports on this with reference to Ukraine's Emergency Service.
In the northeastern Kharkiv region, a drone attack on a postal logistics terminal in the town of Balakliia sparked a massive fire, destroying two warehouse buildings and nearby cargo containers. The blaze covered over 3,000 square meters. One worker was killed, and several others were wounded, local officials confirmed.
Chernihiv, in northern Ukraine, also suffered significant damage after falling drone debris ignited multiple fires across residential neighborhoods and industrial zones. A home, outbuildings, a garage, and several vehicles were destroyed. According to the city’s military administration, at least four people were hospitalized, and another 20, including eight children, received emergency assistance. Firefighters battled the blazes throughout the night as psychological support teams were dispatched to aid affected families.
In the southern port city of Odesa, Russian drones struck food storage facilities and private homes, igniting fires at multiple locations. Initial reports indicate four civilians were injured, while garages, vehicles, and residential buildings sustained damage.
The attacks come on the heels of the Istanbul talks, where Russia presented what Kyiv denounced as “ultimatum-style” conditions. Ukrainian officials have dismissed the proposals as unacceptable and tantamount to surrender.
No official statement has been issued from the Russian side regarding the strikes. However, Ukrainian authorities view the escalation as a deliberate signal undermining the diplomatic process.
As The Gaze reported earlier, delegations from Ukraine and Russia reached an agreement on a new prisoner exchange during talks in Istanbul on Monday. Ukraine also proposed a meeting between the leaders between 20 and 30 June. At the same time, no progress was made on the issue of a ceasefire.