What's happened
Russia launched extensive missile and drone strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, causing widespread blackouts amid harsh winter conditions. Meanwhile, a senior Russian military officer was wounded in an assassination attempt linked to Ukraine, with a suspect detained in Dubai and extradited to Russia. US efforts to broker peace continue despite stalled negotiations.
What's behind the headline?
The recent escalation underscores Russia's strategic focus on crippling Ukraine's energy resilience during winter, aiming to erode civilian morale and military capacity. The detention and extradition of Lyubomir Korba, accused of shooting a Russian military officer, signals Russia's intent to pursue covert operations beyond its borders. The US's push for a peace deal by March appears increasingly optimistic given the persistent hostilities and unresolved territorial issues. The detention of the suspect in Dubai also reveals the complex international dimension of the conflict, with Middle Eastern countries playing a role in security cooperation. The ongoing attacks and diplomatic efforts suggest that the war will continue to be characterized by a mix of military strikes and diplomatic negotiations, with little immediate resolution in sight.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that Russia has intensified its missile and drone strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, causing widespread blackouts amid a brutal winter. The article highlights the detention of Lyubomir Korba in Dubai, accused of shooting a senior Russian military officer, and notes Ukraine's ongoing efforts to restore power despite continued attacks. France 24 emphasizes the impact of these strikes on civilian life, including airport closures in Poland and the ongoing energy crisis. The Moscow Times provides insight into Russia's military advances and the diplomatic tensions, including the detention of the suspect in Dubai and Russia's claims of Ukrainian involvement. These contrasting perspectives illustrate the complex interplay of military, diplomatic, and international security issues shaping the current phase of the conflict.
How we got here
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has seen Russia repeatedly targeting Ukraine's energy facilities during winter, aiming to weaken resistance. US-mediated peace talks have so far failed to produce territorial concessions, with negotiations ongoing but stalled. The recent attack on a Russian military officer and the detention of a suspect in Dubai highlight ongoing covert and overt hostilities.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Are Ukraine’s Energy Supplies Still Under Attack Amid Peace Talks?
Despite ongoing peace negotiations, Ukraine's energy infrastructure continues to face relentless missile strikes. This persistent targeting raises questions about the motives behind the attacks and their impact on Ukraine’s winter resilience. Below, we explore the current situation, what efforts are being made to restore power, and whether peace talks can succeed amid ongoing hostilities.
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What’s the regional impact of ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and Pakistan?
The conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and Pakistan are shaping regional stability and influencing global politics. From ongoing military strikes to diplomatic efforts, these crises raise important questions about their wider effects. How do these conflicts affect neighboring countries, international security, and future peace efforts? Below, we explore the key issues and what they mean for the world today.
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What Is the Purpose of the Upcoming Peace Board Meeting Chaired by Trump?
The upcoming Peace Board meeting scheduled for February 19, 2026, has sparked widespread interest and controversy. Chaired by former US President Donald Trump, the meeting aims to fundraise for Gaza's reconstruction amid ongoing conflict. But what exactly is this meeting about, and why does it matter? Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this significant diplomatic event and its potential impact on regional peace efforts.
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Can the US really push Ukraine and Russia to a peace deal by June?
With ongoing conflicts and diplomatic efforts intensifying, many wonder if the US can successfully broker a peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia by June. The situation is complex, with stalled negotiations, military strikes, and political pressures all playing a role. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this potential deadline and what it means for the region's future.
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Why Are Russia's Missile Strikes on Ukraine's Energy Infrastructure Continuing?
Russia's ongoing missile strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure have raised many questions. Why are these attacks continuing despite diplomatic efforts? How are they affecting civilians? And what does this mean for peace prospects? Below, we explore these critical issues to help you understand the current situation and its implications.
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Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
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Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Covering an area of 17,125,200 square kilometres, it is the largest country in the world by area, spanning more than one-eighth of the Earth's in
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Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin is a Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as President of Russia since 2012, previously holding the position from 1999 until 2008.
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Kyiv, also Kiev, is the capital and most populous city of Ukraine. Located in the north-central part of the country, it straddles both banks of the Dnieper River. As of January 2022, the population of Kyiv was 2,952,301, making it the seventh-most populou
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.