At least four people have been killed as Russia and Ukraine exchanged fresh attacks, highlighting the persistent volatility of the conflict just as new diplomatic efforts backed by the United States gather momentum.

Ukrainian officials reported that a Russian drone strike on the southeastern city of Zaporizhzhia killed two civilians and injured several others, including children.

The attack caused significant damage to residential areas, underscoring the continued risks faced by civilians far from the front lines.

In northern regions, further strikes disrupted power supplies, adding to pressure on already strained infrastructure.

Across the border, authorities in Russia’s Belgorod region said Ukrainian shelling killed two women and wounded another civilian.

The incidents reflect a continuing pattern of cross-border attacks that have expanded the geographical scope of the war, with both sides targeting areas beyond immediate battlefield positions.

The escalation comes as the United States advances renewed efforts to broker progress toward a potential settlement.

Recent meetings between American and Ukrainian representatives have been described as constructive, focusing on narrowing differences and identifying pathways toward a broader agreement.

The discussions form part of a wider push by the Trump administration to bring stability to a conflict that has reshaped European security and strained global resources.

Ukrainian leadership has confirmed its commitment to continued dialogue, while also maintaining calls for sustained international support.

Russian officials have signalled that further talks may be possible, though no formal breakthrough has yet been announced.

Despite the renewed diplomatic activity, the latest violence underscores the difficulty of translating negotiations into immediate de-escalation on the ground.

Both sides continue to rely heavily on drones and long-range strikes, technologies that have become central to the war’s evolution and have increased the unpredictability of attacks.

The situation remains fluid, with military operations continuing alongside diplomatic outreach, leaving the prospect of a lasting ceasefire uncertain as talks proceed.