Deadly Russian strikes hit Ukraine as U.S. officials visit Kyiv and Trump envoy drafts peace plan

A camera captured the moment a devastating Russian strike hit the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, sending residents scrambling for cover.

(NBC)- A camera captured the moment a devastating Russian strike hit the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, sending residents scrambling for cover. It was one of the deadliest nights of the war in months. In Ternopil, Ukrainian officials say 25 people were killed, including three children. By daylight, desperate families searched the rubble for survivors, asking rescuers if anyone had been pulled from the debris.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attacks, writing that “once again, the Russians have killed innocent, peaceful people who were simply sleeping in their homes.”

As Ukraine reels from the latest wave of strikes, top U.S. military leaders — including Army Secretary Dan Driscoll — made an unannounced trip to Kyiv to discuss both military strategy and renewed diplomatic efforts. The visit was confirmed by two U.S. officials, a European official and another source close to the Ukrainian government.

According to three U.S. officials, Trump envoy Steve Witkoff has drafted a 28-point framework intended to restart peace negotiations. Sources say the plan, still in its early stages, was created with Russian input but has not yet been formally presented to Ukrainian leaders.

President Trump spoke today about a recent phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying the Russian leader referenced Trump’s involvement in other peace efforts around the world. Trump recalled telling Putin: “Don’t worry about that. Just let me settle your freaking war. I don’t need any help. I need help with your war.”

Keir Simmons reports that U.S. officials confirm the peace proposal exists but note it was developed without Ukraine’s participation.