Sat Jan 24 08:26:06 UTC 2026: Headline: Putin Accused of “Cynical” Missile Strike During Peace Talks in Abu Dhabi

The Story:
On January 24, 2026, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of ordering a massive missile strike on Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv and Kharkiv, while delegations from Ukraine, Russia, and the U.S. were engaged in Washington-brokered peace talks in Abu Dhabi. The strikes, which targeted energy infrastructure, left one person dead, at least 23 injured, and hundreds of thousands without power and heat in freezing temperatures. The attack prompted strong condemnation from Ukrainian officials who argued that it undermined the peace process.

Key Points:

  • The missile strike occurred on January 24, 2026, while peace talks were underway in Abu Dhabi.
  • Ukraine’s air force reported 375 drones and 21 missiles were launched by Russia in the strikes.
  • Kyiv and Kharkiv were the primary targets, with energy infrastructure being heavily impacted.
  • Approximately 800,000 people in Kyiv were left without power.
  • Russia continues to demand that Ukraine surrender the 20% of Donetsk that it still controls.
  • President Zelenskyy stated on January 23, 2026, that it was too early to draw conclusions from the talks.

Key Takeaways:

  • The timing of the missile strike raises serious questions about Russia’s commitment to the peace process.
  • The targeting of energy infrastructure indicates a strategy aimed at weakening Ukrainian resolve and potentially forcing concessions.
  • The continued disagreement over territory remains a significant obstacle to any potential peace agreement.
  • Public sentiment in Ukraine remains firmly opposed to territorial concessions.

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