Ukraine’s Largest Drone Strike Hits Moscow, Disrupts Travel

Enrico Letta, former Italian Prime Minister and head of the French Jacques Delors Institute, has advocated for a new European defense system in response to the ongoing security concerns following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

In an op-ed published in Le Monde, Letta proposed an expanded European Common Defense System that would incorporate all 27 EU member states, along with the United Kingdom, Norway, Iceland, and the three Western Balkan candidates—Albania, Montenegro, and North Macedonia. His proposal excludes Hungary, citing its perceived pro-Russian stance.

Letta acknowledged recent increases in EU defense spending as a positive step but emphasized the need for a more comprehensive integration strategy. He urged leaders to move beyond military measures, pointing to energy security, connectivity, and economic independence as crucial components of a broader security framework.

He also called for a stronger response to geopolitical tensions, including relations with the U.S., where he noted an administration "openly hostile to the EU." Letta criticized the bloc’s fragmentation, describing it as a significant vulnerability.

International Meeting on Ukraine in Paris

Military representatives from over 30 nations are gathering in Paris to deliberate on a coordinated response to Russian aggression and discuss the formation of an international security force for Ukraine post-ceasefire.

The meeting, described by officials as the most substantial step in ongoing European-led efforts, seeks to establish a "coalition of the willing" dedicated to Ukraine’s long-term security. Participants include nearly all NATO member states, along with select Commonwealth nations and key Asian allies such as Japan and South Korea. Notably, the U.S. is absent, as the initiative is intended to be led by European nations.

The conference, part of the Paris Defence Forum, will feature a keynote address by French President Emmanuel Macron, outlining the strategic objectives of the initiative.

Ukraine Launches Massive Drone Attack on Moscow

Hours before the Paris security talks, Ukraine carried out its largest recorded drone strike on Moscow, Russian authorities reported. The attack resulted in at least one fatality, significant infrastructure damage, and widespread travel disruptions.

According to Russia's defense ministry, 337 drones were launched at various locations across the country, with 91 targeting the Moscow region. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin confirmed the attack as the most extensive drone assault on the city to date.

Aviation authorities suspended flights at all four Moscow airports, along with two additional airports in Yaroslavl and Nizhny Novgorod, citing safety concerns.

U.S. and Ukraine Discuss Possible Endgame in Saudi Talks

U.S. and Ukrainian officials are meeting in Saudi Arabia today to explore potential diplomatic resolutions to the war, with former U.S. President Donald Trump pushing for negotiations.

Talks are centered around a minerals trade agreement, which had been expected to be finalized in prior discussions involving U.S. State Secretary Marco Rubio and his Ukrainian counterpart. Officials say today's negotiations could be pivotal in securing the deal.

Meanwhile, Ukraine has reiterated its proposals for a limited ceasefire in specific areas, as initially suggested by French President Emmanuel Macron. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has also emphasized the need for prisoner exchanges and the return of Ukrainian children taken by Russia.

Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as a key mediator in these discussions. Following his meeting with Saudi leaders, Zelenskyy stated that security guarantees were a major topic of discussion.

Rubio stressed that both Ukraine and Russia must be prepared for difficult compromises to advance peace talks. He refrained from setting conditions but highlighted the need to assess the willingness of both sides to negotiate an interim solution.

The outcome of today's talks remains uncertain, but officials on both sides express cautious optimism that progress can be made.