Kyiv, Ukraine, experienced a significant Russian drone and missile attack early Saturday, resulting in explosions and machine gun fire throughout the city. Many residents sought shelter in underground subway stations during the assault, which occurred shortly after a major prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine. This exchange, involving hundreds of soldiers and civilians, was the first phase of an agreement reached at a meeting in Istanbul the previous week.
The attack, reported by Kyiv’s acting military administration head, Tymur Tkachenko, led to debris from intercepted missiles and drones falling in multiple city districts. Six individuals required medical attention, and two fires broke out in the Solomianskyi district. Prior to the assaults, Kyiv’s mayor, Vitalii Klitschko, had warned residents about an imminent threat from over 20 Russian strike drones. Debris landed on a shopping mall and a residential building in the Obolon district.
The prisoner swap marked a significant event in the ongoing conflict, bringing home 390 Ukrainians, with further exchanges anticipated. Russia’s Defense Ministry confirmed receiving an equal number of prisoners from Ukraine, noted for its scale as the largest swap involving civilians during the war. While this exchange offered a moment of cooperation, it did not bring a halt to the fighting, which continued along the extensive front lines, causing substantial casualties on both sides.
Diplomatic efforts remain complicated. Russian officials indicated plans to present Ukraine with a draft for a comprehensive peace agreement after the prisoner exchange concludes. However, European leaders criticized President Putin for his reluctance to engage earnestly in peace negotiations, as both countries’ positions appear far from reaching a resolution.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
