Russia and Ukraine launched unprecedented drone attacks on each other overnight, while the Kremlin expressed optimism about U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s interest in negotiating a deal to end the conflict.
Trump’s election has the potential to shift the nearly three-year-long war and raises questions about Washington’s multi-billion-dollar aid to Ukraine, which has been essential to its defense. During his campaign, Trump claimed he could resolve the conflict quickly and has hinted at engaging directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin — a stark departure from President Joe Biden’s approach.
Though Trump will not assume office until January, the conflict continues to intensify. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that Russia launched 145 drones at Ukraine overnight — the highest number in a single nighttime attack so far.
“Russia launched a record 145 Shaheds and other strike drones last night,” Zelensky posted on social media, urging Western allies to provide further support for Ukraine’s defense.
Meanwhile, Russia stated it had intercepted 34 Ukrainian drones aimed at Moscow, marking the largest attempted attack on the capital since the conflict escalated in 2022.
‘Positive Signals’
While the Kremlin publicly supported Kamala Harris in the U.S. election, it is believed to have favored Trump, welcoming his skepticism about U.S. support for Ukraine. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said there were “positive signals” from Trump, who has discussed peace through deals rather than confrontation.
“At least he’s talking about peace and not about strategic defeat for Russia — that sets him apart from the current administration,” Peskov noted. However, he cautioned that Trump’s unpredictability leaves the future uncertain.
“What happens next is hard to say,” Peskov said, acknowledging that Trump’s commitment to his campaign promises remains unclear.
Trump has yet to outline a specific peace proposal. Putin has previously demanded Ukraine cede parts of its eastern and southern regions as a condition for negotiations.
Following Trump’s victory, Zelensky warned that any concessions to Putin would likely encourage further Russian aggression. Zelensky also cautioned that without continued U.S. support, Ukraine’s ability to defend itself would be significantly compromised.
