In a dramatic escalation on the eve of peace talks, both Ukraine and Russia have intensified military operations, highlighting the ongoing volatility of the conflict.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that Defense Minister Rustem Umerov would represent Ukraine in the second round of direct peace negotiations with Russian officials set to take place in Istanbul.

Despite these diplomatic efforts, both sides have ramped up military activity, resulting in significant casualties and destruction.

In Russia's Bryansk region, a highway bridge was destroyed over a passenger train traveling to Moscow, resulting in at least seven fatalities and 69 injuries among the 388 passengers on board.

The identity of those responsible for the attack has not been established.

Meanwhile, Ukraine has claimed responsibility for a notable strike on Russian military assets, targeting nuclear-capable long-range bombers located at a base in Siberia—over 4,300 kilometers from the frontline.

Reports indicate that the attack resulted in significant damage to approximately 40 Russian warplanes.

On the other hand, the Russian military has reported an unprecedented offensive against Ukraine, launching 472 drones overnight, which marks the highest nightly total since the conflict began, along with seven missile strikes.

According to Russian sources, advances were made into the Sumy region of Ukraine, where open-source pro-Ukrainian mapping indicates that Russia has gained control over 450 square kilometers of Ukrainian territory, cited as the fastest monthly advance in six months.

U.S. President Donald Trump has urged both nations to reach a peace agreement, stating he would reconsider U.S. support for Ukraine should significant progress not be made.

This position may lead to increased responsibility for European countries, which face challenges in terms of financial resources and military supplies compared to the United States.

In the context of the scheduled talks in Turkey, both sides are expected to present their proposals for peace terms, although the chasm between their positions remains considerable.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously set forth conditions for peace, including Ukraine's commitment to abandon its NATO aspirations and withdrawal of troops from certain Russian-claimed territories within Ukraine.

On the contrary, Ukrainian negotiators are expected to present a document advocating for no limitations on Ukraine's military capabilities post-peace settlement, non-recognition of Russian annexation claims, and reparations for the war’s impacts on Ukraine.

The framework outlines that the current front line would serve as the initial point for discussions regarding territorial disputes.

Currently, Russian forces control roughly one-fifth of Ukrainian territory, totaling around 113,100 square kilometers, emphasizing the complexities involved in reaching a lasting resolution.

In related developments, European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas remarked on increased defense spending by EU nations, which she attributed to pressures from the U.S. She highlighted the EU's intent to strengthen its defense capabilities while also urging collaboration to counteract China's expanding economic influence.

During remarks at the Shangri-La defense forum in Singapore, Kallas addressed U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's comments regarding American expectations for higher NATO defense spending.

She noted that various EU nations recognize the importance of augmenting their defense investments, particularly in response to security challenges stemming from both Russia and China.

Kallas emphasized the interconnectedness of security dynamics between Europe and the Indo-Pacific region, underscoring the necessity for united efforts among nations, including the United States and key allies, to address shared concerns effectively.