Russian missiles rained down on Ukraine just ahead of Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s visit

Russian missiles struck Kyiv in the early hours of Wednesday, resulting in the tragic death of at least one civilian, according to Ukrainian officials. The barrage of ballistic missiles hit just hours before Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s scheduled visit to the Ukrainian capital, making him the first Cabinet-level Trump official to do so. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s aide Andriy Yermak shared the news on Telegram.

Bessent’s visit to Kyiv aims to discuss President Donald Trump’s demand for access to $500 billion worth of rare Earth minerals as payment for U.S. military aid to Ukraine. Additionally, energy discussions are on the agenda, with promises to increase sanctions on Russia’s oil sector. Zelenskyy expressed his disappointment in the attack, stating that it proved Russian President Vladimir Putin’s lack of interest in pursuing peace.

The aftermath of the missile strike was devastating, with reports of explosions echoing through the city. A grim discovery followed as the body of a civilian, covered with a black plastic sheet, was found by reporters from the French newswire AFP. Zelenskyy confirmed the death of at least one person and injuries to four others, including a child. Residential and office buildings were damaged in the attack.

The Russian defense ministry claimed responsibility for the “group missile strike,” targeting Ukrainian sites involved in drone production and claiming successful hits on all intended targets. As part of ongoing peace efforts, Trump’s special envoy to Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, is expected to visit Kyiv in the coming week to discuss potential peace plans with Russia.

The Munich Security Conference this week will see Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth traveling to Europe to engage in discussions with Ukrainian and European officials regarding peace options. In Chernihiv, north of Kyiv, local Governor Vyacheslav Chaus reported Russian attacks on critical infrastructure, resulting in at least two injuries.

Amidst the chaos, the Ukrainian air force managed to intercept and down six missiles and 71 out of 123 drones, including Iranian-designed Shahed attack vehicles. The relentless violence underscores the urgent need for diplomatic solutions to end the conflict and prevent further loss of innocent lives.