Daijiworld Media Network- Kyiv
Kyiv, May 25: In one of the most devastating aerial assaults since the beginning of the war, Russia launched a barrage of missiles and drones on the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, leaving at least 12 people dead and scores injured. The attack unfolded just hours after Ukraine and Russia exchanged hundreds of prisoners of war in a rare gesture hinting at the possibility of a ceasefire.
Ukraine’s Air Force confirmed that the Russian offensive involved 298 drones and 69 missiles, with 266 drones and 45 missiles successfully intercepted. Despite the defence efforts, significant damage was reported in Kyiv, Kharkiv, Mykolaiv, Ternopil, and parts of Kherson. Authorities fear the death toll may rise, with over 60 people injured in the strikes.
Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko confirmed the fatalities, stating that four people were killed in Kyiv region alone. The onslaught continued into Sunday morning, as military officials reported more incoming drones even after neutralizing many overnight.
This marks Russia's second large-scale attack in two days, following Friday night’s waves of drone and missile assaults. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described it as a "difficult night for all of Ukraine," calling for tougher sanctions on Moscow. He urged global support while vowing to press ahead with the historic prisoner exchange deal brokered last week in Istanbul.
As part of the first phase of the swap, 307 Russian prisoners were exchanged for 307 Ukrainian captives, with both countries earlier confirming the return of 390 prisoners each. The full agreement is expected to involve the exchange of 1,000 prisoners on both sides.
Meanwhile, Moscow reported its own share of drone attacks, claiming Ukraine targeted Russian territory with 788 drones and missiles since Tuesday. Authorities temporarily restricted operations at four major airports, including Sheremetyevo, as 12 drones headed for Moscow were intercepted, said Mayor Sergei Sobyanin.
The Russian Defence Ministry also claimed territorial gains in Donetsk and Sumy, reiterating their continued focus on securing the eastern Donbas region.
With no clear terms yet revealed, Russia hinted it would present peace settlement conditions following the full execution of the prisoner exchange. Global observers remain cautious as the humanitarian step coincides with escalating military aggression, leaving the path to peace uncertain.