Summary:
- China sends a high-profile representative to Ukraine peace talks in Saudi Arabia.
- Multiple maritime drone attacks reported near Russian naval facilities.
- Ukraine aims to present President Zelensky's 10-point peace plan during the talks.
- China's involvement in the talks raises new considerations for conflict resolution.
Two days of crucial talks over a possible peace plan get underway in Saudi Arabia this morning as sea drones strike near a Russian naval base. ABC's Ian Pannell joins us live now from Kharkiv.
Good morning. Today Russia claiming that it suffered another maritime drone attack overnight. Videos circulating online appear to show the moment a Russian oil tanker was struck in the Black Sea. Russian maritime authorities say the explosion punched a hole in the vessel's engine room. This, of course, comes a day after another attack on a Russian warship, also by what appears to be a sea drone, again captured in videos circulating online. The ship here seems to be limping back to base, this thing heavily on one side. Now Ukraine isn't confirming whether or not it carried out these strikes, but security sources tell ABC News they did conduct the attacks. While this war grinds on, today up to 40 countries are taking part in talks in Saudi Arabia. Ukraine is expected to push President Zelensky's 10-point peace plan, which, of course, calls for the return of all Ukrainian land. Notably, though, the Chinese, who are key allies of Vladimir Putin, are sending a high-profile special representative. The Russians, though not attending these talks, believe that peace talks, whatever may come, depend on what happens on the battlefield. And for now, there's no sign that either side is clearly winning and that neither side is really ready for peace. With Ian Pennell for us. Thank you.