Russia Says Ukrainian Drone Strike Kills 24 in Occupied Ukraine as Tensions Grow Amid Peace Talks

Russia said a Ukrainian drone strike killed at least 24 people in a Russian-occupied area of Ukraine, an incident that has heightened tensions at a delicate moment as diplomatic efforts aimed at easing the conflict continue. According to Russian-installed officials, the strike hit a crowded civilian area, causing significant casualties and damage, though independent verification of the claims remains difficult amid restricted access and conflicting accounts from the battlefield. Ukrainian authorities have not immediately commented on the reported strike, and Kyiv has previously said it targets military infrastructure while accusing Russia of staging or exaggerating incidents in occupied territory. The reported deaths come as negotiators and international mediators attempt to revive or sustain peace talks, efforts that have repeatedly stalled amid ongoing fighting and mutual accusations. Analysts warn that incidents involving civilian casualties risk hardening positions on both sides, making compromise more politically difficult and fueling calls for retaliation.