Russian forces launched a combined assault of 250 drones and 14 ballistic missiles on Kyiv overnight, marking one of the largest aerial attacks on Ukraine’s capital since the conflict began three years ago. The strikes damaged residential buildings and injured at least 15 people, according to Ukrainian officials.
The escalation followed the completion of the first stage of a major prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine, raising questions about the viability of diplomatic efforts amid ongoing hostilities. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the attack as a “tough night” for the nation, urging the international community to impose stricter sanctions on Moscow to “accelerate the peace process.”
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga echoed the call on social media, stating the assault underscored the “urgent need” for increased economic pressure on Russia. Analysts suggest the dual developments—prisoner swaps paired with military escalation—highlight the complex interplay between diplomacy and battlefield dynamics in the protracted conflict.
Global markets reacted cautiously to the news, with energy prices showing volatility as investors weighed risks of prolonged instability in Eastern Europe. The attack also prompted renewed travel advisories for parts of Ukraine, affecting regional tourism and cultural exchange programs.
