INTERNATIONAL: Ceasefire Talks Shattered: Russia Unleashes Deadliest Airstrike on Ukraine
Unprecedented Attack During Peace Talks
In a dramatic escalation, Russia has launched its largest airstrike on Ukraine since the onset of the war, deploying a total of 367 aerial weapons—comprising 69 missiles and 298 Iranian-made Shahed drones.
The assault coincided with ongoing ceasefire discussions, raising concerns over Moscow’s intentions and the fragility of the diplomatic process.
Capital Under Siege: Devastation in Kyiv
Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital, bore the brunt of the bombardment. Explosions echoed across the city as waves of missiles and drones struck civilian zones, triggering widespread panic.
Local authorities reported at least 12 fatalities, including three children. More than 60 individuals sustained injuries, while over 80 residential structures were damaged. Fires erupted in 27 locations, prompting emergency services into overdrive.
Civilians in Fear: Mass Sheltering in Metro Stations
As the alarms sounded, hundreds of civilians rushed into underground metro stations for protection. The psychological toll of repeated aerial assaults continues to mount, especially among vulnerable communities already displaced or living in conflict zones.
Zelensky Condemns “Deliberate Civilian Targeting”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack, stating that over 30 cities and villages were struck. He accused Russia of deliberately targeting non-military infrastructure, calling it a strategy to break civilian morale.
“Every day of silence from the West emboldens Putin,” Zelensky said, calling on the United States and European allies to impose stronger economic and political sanctions against Moscow.
Call for Western Accountability
The Ukrainian leadership has urged Western nations to move beyond rhetoric and adopt decisive measures. Zelensky emphasized that continued Western hesitation is allowing Russia to escalate unchecked.
He also stressed the importance of timely military and humanitarian support, warning that delay would result in more civilian casualties.
Simultaneous Prisoner Swap Raises Eyebrows
Despite the assault, both countries engaged in a significant prisoner swap on Sunday. A total of 303 individuals were exchanged, highlighting the paradoxical nature of simultaneous warfare and diplomacy.
Analysts suggest the swap may be a strategic move to signal diplomatic openness, even as battlefield aggression intensifies.
International Implications
This incident is likely to increase global scrutiny of Russia’s military conduct, particularly the use of Iranian-manufactured drones. It also raises questions about the effectiveness and future of ongoing ceasefire negotiations.
With tensions at their highest in months, the international community faces increasing pressure to intervene with firmer actions aimed at de-escalation and civilian protection.