Massive Russian Missile Strikes Hit Kyiv as Zelensky Prepared for Talks

BRUSSELS, Belgium — In a recent escalation of hostilities, Russian forces launched a significant missile barrage against Ukraine on the night of February 12, targeting major cities, including Kyiv and Kryvyï Rih. Ukrainian air defense systems successfully intercepted six ballistic missiles and 71 drones during this attack, according to the Ukrainian Air Force press service.

The missiles, identified as Iskander-M, were fired from the Briansk region and Crimea. The Ukrainian military reported that, in addition to the intercepted projectiles, Russian forces deployed 123 Shahed-type kamikaze drones and several decoy drones across various regions, including Kharkiv, Poltava, and Dnipropetrovsk.

“At 8:30 a.m., the destruction of six Iskander-M missiles and 71 Shahed drones was confirmed,” the military’s statement read, detailing the extensive coverage of the air defense response across multiple regions.

President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the aggression on social media, labeling it as a continuation of Russian terrorism against Ukraine. “This Russian terrorism against Ukraine will not cease on its own. Putin is not preparing for peace—he continues to kill Ukrainians and destroy cities,” Zelensky stated.

Amidst the increased military tensions, Zelensky expressed his willingness to meet with former U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington, D.C., when their teams can finalize the details. In an interview with The Guardian, he emphasized the importance of this dialogue.

“Regarding President Trump, he said he was waiting for me in Washington. We strongly hope our teams will agree on dates and visit agendas. As soon as confirmed, we are ready—I am prepared—for this meeting,” Zelensky remarked.

He noted that the upcoming weeks are expected to be intense, with numerous meetings and discussions held with U.S. representatives and European leaders. Zelensky plans to meet with Vice President Mike Pence and several prominent U.S. senators and congress members soon.

During a defense coordination meeting in Brussels, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov outlined the goals for the upcoming Ramstein meeting—a forum dedicated to enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities and cooperation with allies. This meeting, the first chaired by the UK’s Secretary of State for Defence, John Healey, aims to ensure sustained military aid and accelerate the delivery of critical arms.

Umerov reiterated the primary objective: “To strengthen military cooperation and create tangible support mechanisms for Ukraine. Ukraine is ready for negotiations to end the war. However, a just and lasting peace will only be achievable if Ukraine is strong on the battlefield.”

In addition to the discussions in Brussels, French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans for another international meeting on Ukraine involving multiple European and non-European nations. This follows a preliminary meeting that gathered key leaders from the EU and NATO.

On the ground, as military discussions ramp up, international tensions remain, with the U.S. and Russia engaged in delicate negotiations to stabilize the situation. While Zelensky prepares for talks with U.S. representatives, he maintains that Ukraine must be included in any peace discussions involving its fate.

“Any negotiation must involve Ukraine—nothing can be agreed upon without our presence at the table,” he affirmed, further stressing that Ukraine’s sovereignty and security must be prioritized in all future dialogues.