Zelenskiy Warns of New Russian Energy Strikes as Ukraine Peace Talks Resume in Geneva

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has warned that Russia is preparing fresh large-scale attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, heightening tensions ahead of a new round of U.S.-brokered peace talks in Geneva. In his nightly address, Zelenskiy cited intelligence reports indicating that Moscow plans further strikes targeting critical power facilities, a move he said could complicate efforts to end the nearly four-year war.

According to Zelenskiy, Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy grid are “constantly evolving,” combining drones and missile systems to maximize damage. He stressed the urgent need to ensure that Ukraine’s air defense systems are fully operational and reinforced with additional international support. The Ukrainian leader added that Russia appears intent on exploiting the final days of winter to inflict maximum hardship on civilians by disrupting heating and electricity supplies.

Zelenskiy emphasized that continued assaults on energy targets undermine diplomatic momentum. He called on key allies, particularly the United States, to recognize the seriousness of the threat and provide enhanced defense assistance. Strengthening Ukraine’s air defenses remains a top priority as the country faces ongoing missile and drone attacks.

Meanwhile, delegations from Ukraine, Russia, and the United States are gathering in Geneva for a third round of negotiations aimed at advancing peace efforts. For the first time, discussions will focus directly on the contentious issue of Ukrainian territories occupied by Russian forces. Rustem Umerov, head of Ukraine’s delegation, confirmed his team’s arrival in Geneva and expressed readiness for substantive talks on security and humanitarian matters.

The Kremlin has confirmed that Vladimir Medinsky, an aide to President Vladimir Putin, will lead Russia’s delegation. Moscow continues to demand that Ukraine cede the entire Donbas region. Previous rounds of U.S.-backed talks in the United Arab Emirates resulted in a prisoner exchange but failed to deliver a broader ceasefire or political settlement.