What's happened
Between late January and early February 2026, Russia intensified drone and missile attacks across Ukraine, targeting energy infrastructure and civilian areas in Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhia, Odesa, and Kyiv. These strikes caused multiple casualties and widespread damage, coinciding with US-brokered peace talks in Abu Dhabi. Ukraine condemned the attacks as war crimes, while Russia claimed military targets. Negotiations remain deadlocked over territorial disputes.
What's behind the headline?
Escalation Amid Diplomacy
The recent surge in Russian attacks, including the use of cluster munitions and mass drone barrages, starkly contradicts the ongoing peace negotiations brokered by the United States in Abu Dhabi. This pattern reveals Moscow's strategic calculus: applying military pressure to strengthen its bargaining position while undermining Ukrainian morale and infrastructure.
The Weaponization of Energy Infrastructure
Targeting energy workers and facilities, as seen in the Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhzhia strikes, aims to exacerbate civilian hardship during winter, potentially eroding public support for Ukraine's resistance. This tactic also complicates Ukraine's ability to sustain its defense and civilian life.
Stalemate Over Territory
The core impasse remains Russia's demand for full control over the eastern Donbas region and occupied territories, which Ukraine refuses to concede. The slow, bloody advances on the ground, including recent claims of capturing settlements, reflect Moscow's attempt to solidify territorial claims before any agreement.
Implications for Peace Prospects
Despite official statements of 'productive' talks, the continued violence signals deep mistrust and divergent objectives. The international community's pressure on Russia to cease attacks is mounting, but without tangible concessions, the conflict risks protraction.
What This Means for the Reader
The ongoing conflict affects global energy markets and geopolitical stability. For those in Europe and beyond, the war's persistence underscores the fragility of peace efforts and the human cost of unresolved territorial disputes. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether diplomacy can overcome military realities.
What the papers say
Al Jazeera reports on the February 4 cluster munition attack in Donetsk, highlighting Ukrainian officials' condemnation of Russia's 'targeted war crime' amid peace talks in Abu Dhabi. They note Russia's simultaneous ground advances and aerial bombings damaging civilian homes. France 24 and Al Jazeera's earlier coverage from February 1 detail the deadly drone and missile strikes on energy workers and civilian infrastructure in Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhzhia, emphasizing the timing alongside the announcement of a second round of US-brokered talks. The Independent and NY Post provide context on Russia's extensive drone attacks, including over 50 drones hitting Odesa's power grid and residential buildings, with Zelenskyy criticizing these strikes as undermining diplomacy. The Moscow Times and The Independent underscore the human toll and Russia's improved drone capabilities, while Sky News offers insight into the stalled negotiations, noting the deadlock over territorial demands and the strategic significance of the Donbas region. Together, these sources illustrate a complex interplay of military aggression and diplomatic efforts, with Ukraine pushing for increased Western support and sanctions against Russia to compel concessions.
How we got here
Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine nearly four years ago, the conflict has involved relentless attacks on civilian and energy infrastructure. Despite multiple rounds of US-mediated negotiations, including recent talks in Abu Dhabi, fighting continues with heavy drone and missile strikes, especially targeting Ukraine's power grid and eastern regions.
Go deeper
- What are the main obstacles in the Russia-Ukraine peace negotiations?
- How are drone attacks affecting Ukraine's civilian infrastructure?
- What is the international community doing to pressure Russia?
Common question
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How Are Russian Drone Attacks Impacting Ukraine and What’s Being Done?
Recent Russian drone attacks on Ukraine have intensified, targeting energy infrastructure and civilian areas, causing casualties and power outages. Ukrainian leaders are calling for faster diplomatic solutions amid ongoing military escalation. Many wonder how these attacks affect civilians, what the international response is, and whether this could lead to a wider regional conflict. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this ongoing crisis.
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What Are the Latest Developments in Global Security and Political Tensions?
Recent events around the world highlight escalating conflicts and regional tensions. From Ukraine's intensified drone attacks to Iran's crackdown on protests, and Turkey's espionage arrests, these developments are shaping the geopolitical landscape. Curious about what’s happening and what it means for international stability? Below, we answer key questions about these critical issues.
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Why Are Ukraine's Drone Attacks Increasing?
Ukraine has seen a surge in drone attacks, with recent strikes targeting key infrastructure in Odesa and Kyiv. These attacks involve upgraded Russian drones capable of carrying heavier payloads over longer distances. Many wonder why these attacks are intensifying and what Russia aims to achieve. Below, we explore the reasons behind the increase, what it means for Ukraine, and the broader implications of this ongoing conflict.
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What Upgrades Has Russia Made to Its Drones?
Russia has been enhancing its drone technology to strengthen its military capabilities in Ukraine. Recent reports highlight significant upgrades, including longer range, increased payload capacity, and advanced targeting systems. These improvements aim to make Russian drones more effective in striking Ukrainian infrastructure and military targets. Curious about how these upgrades impact the ongoing conflict? Below, we explore the details of Russia's drone advancements and what they mean for Ukraine and the wider war effort.
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How Is Ukraine Fighting Back Against Drone Attacks?
Ukraine faces ongoing drone and missile strikes from Russia, with recent attacks targeting key infrastructure in Odesa and Kyiv. Despite international support, Ukraine is employing various strategies to defend itself and counter these threats. Curious about how Ukraine is adapting to this evolving threat? Below, we explore the tactics, technology, and future of Ukraine's defense against drone warfare.
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Why Are Russia's Drone and Missile Strikes Increasing in Ukraine?
Recent weeks have seen a sharp rise in Russia's drone and missile attacks across Ukraine, targeting key infrastructure and civilian areas. This escalation raises questions about Russia's military strategy, the impact on Ukraine's stability, and what this means for ongoing peace efforts. Below, we explore the reasons behind these increased strikes, the latest developments in Ukraine, and what the future might hold amid this complex conflict.
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Volodymyr Oleksandrovych Zelenskyy is a Ukrainian politician, actor and comedian who is the 6th and current president of Ukraine, serving since May 2019.
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Odesa, also spelled Odessa, is the third-most populous city and municipality in Ukraine and a major seaport and transport hub located in the south-west of the country, on the northwestern shore of the Black Sea. The city is also the administrative centre.