Escalation in Russia-Ukraine Conflict Amid Trump's Intervention

A surge in drone strikes marks the renewed violence between Russia and Ukraine, with both nations aiming for upper hand before US president-elect Donald Trump's vow to end the warfare. Trump reportedly advised President Putin against escalating tensions during their first conversation post-election victory.

In an unexpected escalation of conflict, Russia and Ukraine deployed hundreds of attack drones, according to Al Jazeera. Analysts suggest that both countries are scrambling for strategic advantage ahead of January, when U.S. president-elect Donald Trump has promised to resolve the ongoing war.

CNN reported on November 10 that hostilities intensified with Russia launching 145 drones as part of a significant drone offensive. Ukrainian forces reciprocated with a drone strike targeting Russian territories, dispatching 34 drones toward Moscow. Russia's Defense Ministry stated all drones were intercepted by air defenses in the Moscow region between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. on Sunday.

According to Moscow region governor Andrey Vorobyov, the Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) were shot down over Ramenskoye, Kolomna, and Domodedovo areas. Meanwhile, Donald Trump engaged in a conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, as reported by The Washington Post, marking their first discussion since Trump's election victory.

In this conversation, President-elect Trump, calling from his Mar-a-Lago resort, reportedly advised Putin against escalating the conflict in Ukraine, although this remains unconfirmed by both the White House and the Kremlin, according to a source cited by The US Daily.

The Washington Post quoted a source familiar with the call saying Trump reminded Putin of the significant U.S. military presence in Europe. Despite campaign promises to promptly resolve the Ukrainian conflict, Trump has not outlined a clear plan. He reportedly hinted at supporting an arrangement where Russia retains some liberated territories during his conversation with Putin, ANI reported.

(With inputs from agencies.)