Russia announced on December 23, 2025, that its forces seized control of Prylipka and Andriivka villages in eastern Ukraine, escalating tensions following recent peace talks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned a coordinated Russian missile and drone strike early today, which killed at least three civilians, including a child, and damaged critical energy infrastructure.
The attack, involving over 650 Shahed drones and 30 missiles, triggered emergency power outages across 13 regions. Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko warned that western Ukraine faces prolonged blackouts. Zelenskyy accused Moscow of undermining negotiations, stating, "Putin still cannot accept that he must stop killing. The world is not putting enough pressure on Russia."
Poland, a NATO member, deployed aircraft after Russian munitions struck areas near its border. The strike followed U.S.-led peace talks in Miami, where divisions emerged between Western allies. While a proposed 20-point plan aligned with 90% of Ukraine's demands, the Kremlin dismissed it, and Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban highlighted differing priorities within the EU.
Zelenskyy had warned earlier this week of potential Russian attacks during the Christmas period, citing historical patterns. A car bombing in Moscow hours after the Miami talks, which killed a Russian general, further strained relations. Ukraine has not claimed responsibility for the incident.
As energy costs rise and European opposition to prolonged conflict grows, the economic fallout from intensified strikes threatens to deepen regional instability.
