Russia and Ukraine exchange strikes as US-brokered peace talks begin in Abu Dhabi
Russia and Ukraine continued intensive military operations on November 9, 2026, as diplomatic efforts intensified. Russian forces launched 317 drones and missiles at Ukrainian power infrastructure, causing widespread outages, while Ukrainian forces struck Russian oil refineries and military targets. Moscow controls roughly 80 percent of Luhansk province and parts of Donetsk, though Ukrainian counterattacks have challenged some Russian positions in recent weeks. Delegations from both countries are meeting in Abu Dhabi on November 10-11 for US-brokered talks on ending the war, with the Trump administration focusing on collective security arrangements. The conflict continues to cause significant casualties on both sides and destruction of civilian infrastructure. The UN has documented Russian attacks on civilians, while both nations have suffered mounting military losses.
Key facts
- Russia launched 317 drones and missiles at Ukraine on November 8-9, 2026, damaging electrical substations and energy infrastructure
- Ukraine struck Russia's second-largest oil refinery at Leningrad Oblast, part of ongoing campaign to disrupt Russian military production
- Russian forces have suffered approximately 450,000 casualty toll since February 2022, according to ISW estimates
- US-brokered peace talks scheduled for November 10-11 in Abu Dhabi with delegations from Russia, Ukraine, and European nations
- Russia controls Luhansk province and roughly 19 percent of Donetsk, while Ukraine holds southern territory including parts of Zaporizhzhia
- Russia aimed to seize Kramatorsk and Sloviansk, last major Ukrainian-controlled cities in Donetsk province
How different outlets framed it
Left-leaning coverage: Left-leaning outlets highlight Russian war crimes and targeting of civilians as documented by UN panels, emphasizing the need for Western military support to Ukraine. They criticize Trump administration attempts to restrict Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, viewing such restrictions as appeasing Russian aggression. Coverage emphasizes Ukraine's defensive position and the humanitarian costs of Russian attacks.
Right-leaning coverage: Right-leaning outlets emphasize Trump's peace-making efforts and negotiation strategy, viewing his energy ceasefire proposal as pragmatic de-escalation. Some conservative commentary questions the wisdom of prolonged US support for Ukraine and express concerns about costs and accountability. Coverage often notes Russia's significant casualties while questioning whether continued military aid serves American interests.
Limits of this briefing
Casualty figures remain contested between Ukrainian, Russian, and independent sources. The ongoing diplomatic process may rapidly alter military priorities and cease-fire arrangements. Limited real-time information from active combat zones means some tactical reports remain unconfirmed.
Sources
- CNN: Russian invasion of Ukraine: Latest news, analysis and videos Centre
- Council on Foreign Relations: War in Ukraine Centre
- PBS NewsHour: Russia and Ukraine exchange strikes a day before U.S.-brokered talks Centre
- Kyiv Post: Ukraine Strikes Russia's Second-Largest Oil Refinery and Iskander Missile Fuel Plant Left
- Fox News: Ukraine war enters fifth year with 3 potential scenarios ahead Right