Sun May 18 07:26:20 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided text, incorporating an Indian perspective where possible:

**India Expresses Concern Over Intensified Drone Attacks in Ukraine Following Unfruitful Talks**

**New Delhi, May 18, 2025** – The conflict in Ukraine has escalated sharply with Russia launching a massive drone attack on Kyiv overnight, marking the most intense aerial assault since the beginning of the full-scale invasion in 2022. According to Ukrainian Air Force reports, Russia deployed 273 drones and decoys, of which 88 were intercepted, and 128 were likely jammed electronically. The attacks resulted in at least one death and three injuries in the Kyiv region, according to Kyiv Regional Governor Mykola Kalashnyk.

This surge in aggression comes on the heels of failed direct talks between Moscow and Kyiv held on Friday, May 16, 2025, the first such meeting in years, aimed at achieving a ceasefire.

Sources at *The Hindu* newspaper indicate that these talks have broken down, with the renewed conflict escalating the tensions between Ukraine and Russia.

The Indian government, closely monitoring the situation, is deeply concerned about the escalating violence and its potential humanitarian consequences. While maintaining its neutral stance, India has consistently called for de-escalation and a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy. The intensified drone attacks raise concerns about the safety of civilians and infrastructure, further complicating efforts to find a lasting solution.

The failure of recent negotiations highlights the urgent need for renewed diplomatic efforts to bring the conflict to an end. India, with its historical ties to both Russia and Ukraine, may play a role in future peace initiatives, advocating for a path towards a negotiated settlement that respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations involved. The rising prices of fuel in India as a result of the war in Ukraine is a concern to the Indian population, and highlights the urgent need for peace in the region.

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