Russia launched a combined missile and drone attack across Ukraine early Thursday, February 26, 2026, injuring at least 26 people, according to reports. The assault targeted Kyiv and other cities, causing damage to residential buildings and civilian infrastructure.
The attack comes as Ukraine marks the fourth year since Russia’s full-scale invasion, with events held across the country to remember the dead. Simultaneously, Ukraine’s top negotiator is meeting with U.S. Peace envoys in Geneva, though the timing appears coincidental to the Russian offensive.
European leaders visiting Kyiv on the anniversary of the invasion pledged continued support for Ukraine. Hungary’s prime minister, Viktor Orbán, has accused Ukraine of imposing an “oil blockade” after Kyiv stated a critical pipeline was closed following Russian strikes, potentially complicating European solidarity.
Ukrainian forces are increasingly reliant on technology to counter Russian attacks. A top Australian defence firm is assisting Ukrainian troops in shooting down Russian drones, reflecting a broader trend of Western governments increasing spending on such technology. Ukraine is also developing its own drone capabilities, with Ukrspecsystems recently opening a factory to produce drones for its military.
The Kyiv Independent reported on February 20, 2026, that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy ruled out any withdrawal from the Donbas region, characterizing Russian terms as an “ultimatum.” Zelenskyy also urged Japan to open a “corridor for dialogue” regarding air defense support.
Russia announced it had handed over 1,000 bodies of Ukrainian soldiers, a move occurring alongside the Geneva talks. Reports from the BBC indicate Russian soldiers have described witnessing fellow troops being executed on commanders’ orders, exposing the brutality of conditions within the war.
The conflict continues to take a toll on Ukrainian citizens. A Ukrainian soldier, Daniil, 21, is undergoing scuba diving treatment to cope with trauma sustained after losing a foot in a landmine explosion. Ukrainian refugee communities are holding vigils, expressing hope for peace and a return home.
According to data tracked by conflict data analyst Olha Polishchuk, accurately counting military losses on both sides remains a significant challenge in the ongoing conflict. Kyiv Post data, updated February 20, 2026, indicates Russian losses of over 13,600 troops in the past month, along with significant losses of tanks, artillery, armored vehicles, aircraft, helicopters and ships.
