**Fire and Explosions Reported in Kyiv Amid Russian Drone Attack, Despite Zelensky’s Offer of Renewed Peace Talks**
A series of explosions rocked the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, on July 21, as Russia launched a drone attack on the city. The assault came despite President Volodymyr Zelensky’s invitation to hold peace talks with Moscow in Turkey next week.
According to reports from Kyiv Independent journalists on the ground, explosions were heard in various parts of the city at around 2:16 a.m. local time. A fire was also reported on the roof of a non-residential building in the Darnytskyi district as a result of the attack.
Russia has stepped up its drone and missile attacks on Ukraine in recent weeks, targeting cities far from the frontline. The assault on Kyiv is just one example of this escalation.
**The Situation Across Ukraine**
All of Ukraine remained under threat of attack from Russian missiles and drones overnight on July 20-21, despite President Zelensky’s invitation to hold peace talks with Moscow in Turkey next week.
Regional authorities reported additional explosions at 2:25 a.m. local time, as Russia continued its assault on the country. The threat was later lifted in Ukraine’s western oblasts after Russian fighters were detected in the area.
**Russia’s Escalation**
Russia has intensified drone and missile attacks in recent weeks, prompting Kyiv’s allies to toughen sanctions on Moscow and renew support for Ukraine. This escalation comes as Russia continues its own mobilization efforts, with reports of strikes on Ukrainian draft offices aimed at disrupting recruitment.
The renewed aggression from Russia is a worrying sign for the people of Ukraine, who are already facing significant challenges in their bid for independence.
**Zelensky’s Offer of Peace Talks**
Despite the ongoing attacks, President Zelensky has maintained his commitment to peace talks with Moscow. He announced on July 19 that Kyiv has proposed a new round of negotiations next week in Turkey.
“Dialogue with the Russian side on prisoner exchanges is ongoing – we are continuing to implement the agreements reached during the earlier meeting in Istanbul,” Zelensky said.
The offer of peace talks comes as Ukraine seeks to find a resolution to its conflict with Russia. However, it remains unclear whether Moscow will accept this offer and engage in meaningful negotiations.
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