Ankara: US President Donald Trump said that recent Russian airstrikes on Kyiv were "not necessary" and had "very bad timing." Calling on Russian President Vladimir Putin to stop the attacks, Trump wrote on social media: "5000 soldiers a week are dying. Lets [sic] get the Peace Deal DONE!"

According to Anadolu Agency, Ukrainian officials reported early Thursday that at least eight people were killed and 90 others were injured in a Russian missile attack on the country's capital, Kyiv. The assault has occurred as diplomatic efforts for potential peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia continue amid the war, now in its fourth year.

The recent escalation in violence comes at a critical juncture as international efforts are being made to find a resolution to the ongoing conflict. The missile attack on Kyiv underscores the challenges faced in achieving a ceasefire and moving towards a peaceful settlement. As the humanitarian impact of the conflict continues to grow, the call for a renewed focus on diplomacy becomes ever more urgent.