Mass Russian strike on Kyiv postponed due to talks and Davos — expert
A large-scale Russian attack on Kyiv expected overnight did not take place due to political factors and ongoing negotiations involving international partners, according to military expert and retired Lieutenant General Ihor Romanenko.
Speaking to TSN.ua, Romanenko said Russian strategic aviation activity was detected until around 02:00 a.m., but no combat sorties followed. He believes the strike was postponed due to the World Economic Forum in Davos, where military, political and economic issues were under discussion.
Following contacts in Davos, the issue of a so-called “energy ceasefire” reportedly emerged, a sensitive topic for both Ukraine and Russia. For Moscow, strikes on oil refineries, fuel shortages and attacks on shadow fleet tankers remain critical, increasing pressure on the Russian economy.
At the same time, Russia has already inflicted serious damage on Ukraine’s energy system, effects that were particularly felt during freezing temperatures, including in Kyiv. Against this backdrop, the United States is considering a temporary halt to strikes: Ukraine refraining from attacks on Russian refineries, and Russia from hitting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
Romanenko said technical talks involving Ukraine, the US and Russia have been ongoing for several days in the United Arab Emirates, making a mass missile strike currently impractical and likely prompting the Kremlin to stand down.
He warned that the lull does not mean attacks have been abandoned. Russia may continue psychological pressure by deploying Kinzhal missile carriers or strategic bombers, triggering air raid alerts across Ukraine.
According to the expert, further developments will depend on the outcome of negotiations. Even if agreements are reached, threats will remain to all targets except energy facilities, with pressure continuing to be used as a tool of influence.
