Ukrainians cautiously hopeful that Democratic midterm win may shift peace talks

▲ Escalating

Toll from Russian strike on Zaporizhzhia aid centre reaches 42, dozens missing

Officials say the death toll from Monday's Russian bombing of an aid distribution point in Zaporizhzhia region has risen to 42, with dozens still missing. Ukraine says bodycam footage shows a repeat strike hit the site. Russia and Ukraine also traded overnight drone strikes, and on Friday the New York Times reported guarded hope in Kyiv that the Democratic midterm win could shift peace talks. Russian and Ukrainian officials were due at the White House on Thursday ahead of talks in Abu Dhabi.

• Kyiv says at least 40 were killed in Monday's attack and another 30 may be under rubble; officials later put the toll at 42.
• Russia says it hit a Ukrainian postal hub and a ship, while Ukraine struck Russia's Ryazan region; injuries were reported on both sides.
• Three people were killed by Ukrainian strikes in Russia's Belgorod region, and Moscow claims it downed 700 Ukrainian drones.
• Zelensky hopes the Abu Dhabi talks lead to a meeting with Putin, while German chancellor Merz says Russia has yet to engage seriously.