At least 12 people, including three children, were killed overnight in Russian air strikes across Ukraine, officials confirmed on Sunday. The strikes come amid a major prisoner exchange between Kyiv and Moscow and ongoing efforts by the United States to broker a ceasefire in the three-year-long war.
Ukraine’s emergency services described the night as one of “terror,” as Russia targeted multiple regions with missiles and drones for a second consecutive night. The country’s military reported shooting down 45 missiles and 266 drones during the assault.
Casualties included Three children (ages 8, 12, and 17) in Zhytomy, Four people in Khmelnytskyi, Four in the Kyiv region and One in Mykolaiv.
Explosions were heard in Kyiv, prompting warnings from officials and confirmation from Mayor Vitali Klitschko that air defenses were active.
Meanwhile, Russia reported downing a dozen drones aimed at Moscow, leading to temporary restrictions at major airports including Sheremetyevo.
Prisoner Exchange in Progress
Despite the attacks, Ukraine and Russia are proceeding with their largest prisoner exchange since the war began in February 2022. On Saturday, 307 prisoners from each side were swapped, following a first round on Friday in which 390 individuals were exchanged. Both sides plan to exchange a total of 1,000 prisoners.
President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned Russia’s continued assaults, accusing Moscow of trying to prolong the war, while reaffirming Ukraine’s commitment to the swap deal negotiated in Istanbul.
Emotional Homecomings
Freed Ukrainian soldiers have begun returning home. AFP witnessed several arrivals in Chernigiv, where troops—many emaciated but smiling—greeted crowds.
“It’s simply crazy. Crazy feelings,” said 31-year-old Konstantin Steblev, freed after three years in captivity.
Another soldier, 58-year-old Viktor Syvak, held for over three years after being captured in Mariupol, said, “It’s impossible to describe. It’s very joyful.”
International Reactions and Diplomatic Push
Former U.S. President Donald Trump, attempting to mediate a ceasefire, praised the prisoner exchange on social media, suggesting it might be a step toward peace.
Despite the swap and ongoing diplomatic efforts, the Kremlin has shown no sign of easing its military campaign. President Vladimir Putin continues to resist international calls for an unconditional truce.
