Russia-Ukraine War Day 1,187: Escalating Airstrikes, Prisoner Swap, and Renewed Global Pressure

Russia’s Deadliest Aerial Assault Claims 13 Lives, Including Children

Ukraine is reeling from the largest Russian aerial attack since the war began, as officials confirmed 13 civilians dead and at least 60 injured across several regions. Among the victims were three children aged 8, 12, and 17 in Zhytomyr.

Ukraine’s Air Force said that Russia launched 298 drones and 69 missiles in the overnight assault. Kyiv’s air defenses downed 266 drones and 45 missiles, preventing even greater devastation.

“It was a terrifying night. Explosions lit the skies across multiple cities,” said a senior Ukrainian air defense official. Al Jazeera

Russia Claims Gains Amid Escalating Drone Warfare

In a separate development, the Russian Ministry of Defence claimed it has taken control of Romanivka, a small village in the embattled eastern Donetsk region — though Ukrainian sources have not independently confirmed the report.

Meanwhile, Russia intercepted 110 Ukrainian drones, including 13 over Moscow and Tver, highlighting the growing frequency and reach of drone warfare on both sides.

Massive Prisoner Swap: 2,000 Troops Released in Largest Exchange

After three days of negotiations, Russia and Ukraine completed a landmark prisoner swap, releasing 1,000 soldiers each, making it the largest such exchange in the war’s 3-year span.

Images from the Ukrainian Coordination Center for POWs show emotional reunions, with former captives wrapped in national flags and video calling loved ones.

This marks the second major swap in just two weeks, reflecting a rare moment of coordination despite ongoing hostilities.

Trump Condemns Putin, Criticizes Zelenskyy Over War Rhetoric

US President Donald Trump sharply criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling him “absolutely CRAZY” following the strikes. Speaking to reporters and via Truth Social, Trump said, “He’s needlessly killing people… missiles are raining down on cities for no reason.”

Trump also said he’s “absolutely considering” further sanctions against Moscow and warned that any total takeover of Ukraine could “lead to the downfall of Russia.”

But Trump also took aim at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, claiming his public remarks were “causing problems” and warning he should “stop talking that way.”

Global Leaders Demand Sanctions, Urge Ceasefire

Following the deadly strikes, global pressure is intensifying:

• German FM Johann Wadephul said on ARD that new EU sanctions should be imposed to force Russia to negotiate.

• EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas condemned the attacks, noting, “It’s devastating to see children among the victims.”

• US Special Envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg labeled the strikes as a violation of the 1977 Geneva Peace Protocols and renewed his call for a ceasefire.

“We must act with urgency. The cost of inaction is paid in lives,” Kallas posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Netherlands Delivers Final F-16 Jet to Bolster Ukraine’s Defenses

In a significant boost to Ukraine’s air force, the Netherlands confirmed delivery of the final F-16 fighter jet from its 24-jet pledge. The aircraft will aid in defensive operations, particularly against drone and missile threats.

The F-16 deliveries are “crucial for Ukraine’s ability to maintain airspace integrity,” said Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren.