Moscow/Kyiv: Even as diplomatic efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war continue in Abu Dhabi, Ukraine has reportedly launched one of its largest drone attacks against Russia, firing nearly 1,200 drones overnight. The attacks killed seven people and injured 17 across three Russian regions, including a 12-year-old child, according to reports.

According to the Associated Press (AP), Russia's Defence Ministry claimed that its air defence systems intercepted 1,198 Ukrainian long-range drones between late Thursday night and Friday morning. However, despite the interception claims, attacks in three Russian regions reportedly resulted in civilian casualties.

Ukraine Targets Russian Oil Refinery

Ukraine's General Staff claimed that its drones struck a major oil refinery in Volgograd, Russia, triggering a fire at the facility.

According to Ukrainian officials, the refinery has an annual production capacity of approximately 110 million barrels.

Ukraine has increasingly targeted Russian oil refineries and energy infrastructure in an attempt to disrupt Moscow's war financing and military capabilities.

The latest attack also highlights Ukraine's continued reliance on drone warfare despite sustained Russian military operations.

Russia Retaliates With Drone Attacks on Ukraine

In retaliation, Russia reportedly launched 117 drones towards Ukraine overnight.

According to Ukrainian officials, at least two people were killed in the attacks, including a 17-year-old teenager.

In the southern Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia, Russian attacks damaged two five-storey residential buildings. Officials said at least 30 people were injured, including six children.

Russian Attacks Disrupt Ukraine's Power Supply

Meanwhile, Russia continues targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure as winter approaches.

According to Ukraine's Energy Ministry, Russian attacks disrupted electricity supplies in 12 regions of the country.

Moscow has repeatedly targeted Ukraine's power grid during winter, creating difficulties for civilians amid freezing temperatures and ongoing hostilities.

Abu Dhabi Peace Talks: Europe to Join Discussions

Amid escalating military attacks, diplomatic efforts to end the conflict are continuing in Abu Dhabi.

US envoy Jared Kushner reportedly said Russia had agreed to include European representatives in upcoming negotiations.

According to Kushner, the discussions could cover not only territorial disputes between Russia and Ukraine but also Europe's post-war security arrangements.

European Council President Antonio Costa said representatives from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Poland and the European Union would participate in the discussions.

European countries have insisted that they must have a direct role in decisions affecting their future security.

European Leaders Push for Ceasefire

However, European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stressed that a ceasefire should be prioritised before further negotiations.

She also cautioned against accepting Russian demands concerning European security arrangements, warning that Europe should not fall into what she described as a Russian trap.

The upcoming discussions are expected to extend beyond the Russia-Ukraine conflict to include Europe's broader security architecture and the future role of NATO.

The developments have heightened concerns among European nations as military escalation continues alongside diplomatic efforts to secure peace.