Russia Launches Drone and Missile Attack on Kiev Amid Largest Prisoner Exchange

In the early hours of Saturday, Russia launched a significant assault on Kiev using drones and missiles, injuring at least 8 people, as reported by the city's mayor, Vitali Klitschko. This latest attack resulted in fires and damage across various areas of the city, particularly affecting the Obolon district.

The assault coincided with ongoing Russian air attacks across Ukraine, with the Ukrainian military documenting the launch of 14 ballistic missiles, 6 of which were intercepted over the capital. Additionally, the Russian forces deployed an estimated 250 drones in this aggressive onslaught.

This series of attacks occurred only hours after a monumental prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine took place on Friday, where 780 individuals, including both civilians and military personnel, were exchanged. This marks the largest prisoner exchange since the onset of the conflict, with both nations contributing equally to the swap. In the days to follow, further exchanges are anticipated, with the goal of ultimately releasing a total of one thousand individuals from both sides.

In a display of escalating conflict, Ukraine has recently intensified its airstrike activities, reportedly conducting around 800 drone strikes against Russian targets, including operations that have reached the capital city, Moscow.

As tensions remain high on the ground, the coming days will be critical, not only for the ongoing exchanges of prisoners but also for the heightened military engagement which continues to unfold across the region.

Related Sources:

• Source 1 • Source 2 • Source 3