November 24 was marked by a massive drone attack on Ukraine. The enemy launched 162 drones, including more than 80 Shahed-type. Air defense forces managed to destroy or suppress 125 drones, but 37 hit targets at 15 locations, with debris falling elsewhere. The most affected regions were Kharkiv, Chernihiv, and Dnipropetrovsk. In Kharkiv, 4 people were killed and at least 17 injured, as residential buildings and infrastructure came under attack.
In Kstovo, Russia, explosions were reported at oil and petrochemical facilities. Detailed information will follow in reports from Ukraine’s General Staff and the Russian Ministry of Defense.
On the political stage, discussion continues over various peace initiatives. The European Union published a 24-point peace plan proposing mechanisms for long-term guarantees, ceasefire compliance, return of illegally taken Ukrainian children, prisoner exchange, legal security guarantees for Ukraine akin to NATO Article 5, potential EU and NATO membership after unanimous consent, and restoration of control over strategic sites.
The plan contains many contentious and vague points, particularly regarding enforcement and guarantees, but has sparked broader debate than previous Trump-Putin proposals. Meanwhile, the US submitted its own security guarantees to Ukraine, including the possibility of NATO and several countries' involvement should Russia resume aggression.
On November 24, Ukraine and US delegations held talks in Geneva. Their joint statement highlighted the productivity of consultations, substantial progress, and commitment to working on an agreement to secure Ukraine’s safety and stability. Final decisions are to be made by Trump and Zelensky during their meeting in the US, with the date pending.
International debate continues over using frozen Russian assets as compensation for Ukraine. EU countries push for a joint decision, with German officials opposing unilateral moves.
Within the US, there are differences of opinion on Trump’s approach and the role of Congress in ratifying peace deals. Congressional Republicans discuss the need for legislative input and specification of security guarantees.
Following Geneva, the parties agreed to keep refining a framework document for future negotiations with Russia. Only after final US-Ukraine leader approval will direct talks with Russia resume.
