MediaBites WebDesk: Ukraine is once again reeling under the weight of a devastating wave of Russian missile and drone strikes that targeted key infrastructure and residential zones in the capital Kyiv and other cities, killing at least 12 people and injuring 79.
Officials say the early morning assault involved a coordinated launch of long-range missiles and explosive-laden drones aimed at crippling Ukraine’s air defenses and morale as the war enters its third year. Emergency crews continue to dig through rubble in Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Dnipro, with fears the death toll may rise.
President Volodymyr Zelensky called the attacks “a vile attempt to break our spirit,” vowing that Ukraine’s resolve “remains unshaken.”
Trump Condemns Putin’s Assault
Former U.S. President Donald Trump, who is increasingly vocal on global affairs ahead of the 2024 election rematch, issued a scathing condemnation of the Russian offensive.
“This kind of massive assault on civilians in Kyiv by Putin is inexcusable,” Trump said in a Truth Social post. “I’ve dealt with him before—he’s testing the world again, and the world must respond with strength, not silence.”
READ MORE: Trump and Putin Discuss Ending Ukraine War
Trump’s tone marks a notable shift, as he has previously faced criticism for being soft on Putin during his presidency. His remarks drew bipartisan approval, with many interpreting it as a sign of growing international impatience with Moscow’s brutal campaign.
POW Exchange Brings a Sliver of Relief
Amid the violence, a rare moment of hope emerged: 303 Ukrainian prisoners of war returned home as part of the final phase of a 1,000-for-1,000 exchange deal with Russia. Tears and applause marked the arrival of the soldiers in western Ukraine, many of whom had been held in dire conditions for over a year.
The swap is seen as a diplomatic breakthrough, brokered quietly with the help of neutral parties, and represents one of the largest exchanges of the war so far.
As Ukraine faces yet another dark chapter, international calls are growing louder for a resolution—but for now, the sounds of missiles and air sirens continue to drown out diplomacy.
