In a series of early morning strikes on Ukraine, Russia has left at least one person dead and several others injured, escalating tensions in the region.

This assault occurs on the eve of anticipated peace discussions between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former U.S. President Donald Trump.

According to The New York Times, air raid alarms sounded at approximately 1:30 a.m. local time as the offensive began. Zelensky reported on the social media platform X that nearly 500 drones and 40 missiles targeted key energy sites and civilian infrastructure across Kyiv.

The incident follows closely on the heels of Zelensky unveiling a comprehensive 20-point peace proposal during dialogues with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner. Zelensky has criticized Russia for perpetuating the conflict despite ongoing peace efforts.

“While Russian representatives engage in extended negotiations, their true message is delivered through Kinzhals and ‘Shaheds,'” Zelensky stated. “This reflects the genuine stance of [Russian President Vladimir] Putin and his close allies. They are not interested in ending the war and aim to exploit every opportunity to inflict more suffering on Ukraine and exert further pressure globally.”

The Ukrainian leader added that the U.S. and Europe have the capability of using “truly strong steps” in responding to Russia’s attacks, with “no delays in protecting lives.”

“Many of our partners have this capability,” he continued. “The key is to use it. It is equally important to continue supporting Ukraine’s defense — our protection of life. Supplies for air defense must be sufficient and timely, especially now, when we need them most.”

Zelensky said Thursday that he and Trump would meet in the “near future” before the end of the year before confirming with reporters that Sunday was the day they plan to meet. He said that Ukrainian and American negotiators agree to 90 percent of the current plan.

This plan includes establishing a “fortress belt” in the Donetsk region against future invasions, a vote on the peace deal’s terms through a referendum and setting up a demilitarized zone for both sides to withdraw their troops.

However, Trump on Friday downplayed Zelensky’s optimism about the plan and said his Ukrainian counterpart “doesn’t have anything until I approve it.”

Putin has also warned of continuing military operations if Ukraine and the West do not satisfy Moscow’s demands.

The Russian leader said during a speech last week that he hopes the war will end through diplomacy, “but if the opposing country and its foreign patrons refuse to engage in substantive discussions, Russia will achieve the liberation of its historical lands through military means.”