As President Zelensky prepares for a crucial visit to Germany, Ukraine is rocked by one of Russia’s most punishing drone waves in weeks. Cities burn, power grids collapse, and ports fall silent as winter tightens its grip. Emergency crews battle fires through the night while diplomats race to salvage stalled peace efforts. Officials warn this is more than military pressure; it is a message timed for maximum leverage. With Europe scrambling and Washington growing impatient, the battlefield is once again shaping the talks before they even begin.