Drone Attack Kills 2, Injures 2 in Ukraine; Talks with US Underway

0:00It's March 21st, here's what's happening around the world. Two people died in two children, an 11-year-old and a 15-year-old, suffered injuries when a Russian drone struck a home in the Ukrainian. City of Zaporizha, local officials confirmed the attack happened just before fresh discussions kicked off between Ukrainian and American teams in the United States. These talks aim to revive starred negotiations on wrapping up the war, including the recent American move to loosen sanctions on buyers of oil. That policy shift meant to steady global energy costs last for one month and has stirred debate. Ukrainian leaders want to address it head on, alongside plans for a three-way meeting with Russia and mending ties between President Zelensky and President Trump. Many in Ukraine worry the sanctions release signals a pullback from tough pressure on Moscow, a view echoed by pro-Ukrain groups. Zelensky recently pointed out how the Middle East tensions, sparked by strikes on Iran, have left his forces short on missiles, saying Putin benefits.

1:02From the distraction pulling Western focus away, Zaporizhia has faced repeated Russian strikes since the full invasion began in 2022. It's one of four southeastern regions, Moscow claims to have annexed, though it doesn't hold full control over any. As negotiators meet, Ukraine is pitching its drone know-how to the US for use against threats like those from Iran. But past U.S.-led efforts haven't. Halted the fighting or soften Russia's stance, leaving slim odds for quick progress.