The recent barrage of attacks in Ukraine has killed at least 13 people, injuring 56 others after Russia unleashed drones and ballistic missiles. As President Zelensky calls for more sanctions on Russia, the conflict shows no signs of resolution, despite ongoing prisoner swap negotiations.
Russian Aerial Assaults Leave At Least 13 Dead in Ukraine
Russian Aerial Assaults Leave At Least 13 Dead in Ukraine
A severe wave of Russian drone and missile strikes across Ukraine results in significant casualties and destruction, with escalating tensions amid ongoing prisoner exchanges.
Russian airstrikes on Ukraine have resulted in a tragic toll of at least 13 fatalities and numerous injuries since Friday, as regional officials reported widespread destruction from the attacks. The Ukrainian air force noted that 250 drones and 14 ballistic missiles were directed at Kyiv alone, leading to fires in residential areas and injuries to at least 14 civilians in the capital. This assault marks one of the most significant aerial attacks on Kyiv since the onset of the war.
President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed concern over the escalating violence, stating on social media that “every such attack increases the world’s conviction that the prolongation of the war is orchestrated by Moscow.” The strikes coincided with ongoing prisoner exchange negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, which were initiated during discussions in Turkey.
Describing the night as particularly challenging, Zelensky reported explosions, fires, and damage to homes and institutions throughout the city. Among the affected structures were schools and a clinic, with local residents expressing fears for their safety. One distressed resident recounted the terror her granddaughter experienced during the bombings, calling for a ceasefire.
In a broader scope, four casualties were reported in Donetsk, five in Odesa and Kherson, and four in Kharkiv; drone attacks on Odesa have particularly targeted port facilities. Over 100 individuals, including 13 children, were evacuated from frontline zones, as authorities noted the advancing tactics of Russian aerial strikes.
In response to the attacks, Zelensky reiterated that enhanced sanctions on crucial Russian economic sectors were necessary to coerce Moscow into negotiating a ceasefire. Meanwhile, the past week saw both nations engage in the largest prisoner swap since the outbreak of full-scale hostilities in February 2022, with a further exchange anticipated soon.
Despite efforts from international leaders, including US President Donald Trump, to facilitate dialogue between Ukraine and Russia, concrete steps toward peace remain elusive, as the Kremlin has only indicated a commitment to drafting future agreements rather than addressing immediate ceasefires. The ongoing conflict shows no signs of easing as the humanitarian toll continues to escalate on both sides.
