Russia resumes strikes on freezing Ukrainian capital ahead of talks

Russia launched its largest drone and missile assault of the year on Ukraine on February 5, 2026, targeting cities including Kyiv and Kharkiv. This attack occurred during a severe cold snap, leaving hundreds of thousands of residents without heating, water, and power. The strikes caused significant damage to critical infrastructure, particularly the power grid, exacerbating the ongoing energy crisis in Kyiv. Additionally, residential buildings, schools, and a Soviet-era WWII monument were damaged, making daily life increasingly difficult for residents facing power outages and challenges in cooking and heating their homes (France 24, Al Jazeera, South China Morning Post). The timing of the Russian strikes coincided with a critical moment for Ukraine, as Ukrainian and Russian delegations were scheduled to meet in Abu Dhabi for a new round of peace talks aimed at resolving the nearly four-year war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is preparing for these negotiations, emphasizing the need for security guarantees from Western partners. NATO chief Mark Rutte visited Kyiv to express support for Ukraine, highlighting that Russia's actions demonstrate a lack of commitment to peace (NPR, Al Jazeera, South China Morning Post). The humanitarian situation in Kyiv has become critical, with residents enduring the coldest temperatures experienced during the invasion. The ongoing strikes underscore the challenges faced by the Ukrainian population amid relentless assaults while they seek diplomatic solutions to end the conflict. The attacks have left much of Kyiv in a state of crisis, complicating efforts to provide basic necessities and maintain essential services (France 24, NPR, Al Jazeera).