Drone strike in eastern Ukraine kills four, including child, as peace talks continue

A Russian drone attack late Thursday in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region killed four people, including a five-year-old child, according to Ukrainian local authorities. Officials confirmed the deaths on Friday, saying the strike hit a residential area.

Authorities said five other people were injured in the attack, while at least two homes were completely destroyed. Emergency crews were deployed overnight to assist residents and assess damage in the affected community.

Ukrainian officials say Russia continues to press for Ukrainian forces to withdraw from Donetsk, a region that has remained a focal point of fighting since the early stages of the war. Moscow claims the territory as part of its broader territorial demands, which Kyiv has rejected.

The latest attack comes as diplomatic efforts continue behind the scenes, with the United States involved in facilitating discussions aimed at a potential peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia. Analysts warn that continued strikes on civilian areas could further undermine fragile diplomatic momentum.

The war in eastern Ukraine has had devastating consequences for civilians, with repeated attacks on residential infrastructure raising concerns among international humanitarian groups.