Ukraine and Russia engaged in aerial assaults overnight after a Trump-Putin call. Russia announced a pause on energy target attacks, but did not agree to a broader ceasefire. Casualties ensued, and infrastructure was damaged in Ukraine, while Russia reported interception of Ukrainian drones. A prisoner swap is set for Wednesday, involving 175 individuals.
Overnight, Ukraine and Russia engaged in aerial attacks shortly after a phone call between President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump. The Kremlin indicated a temporary suspension of assaults on energy infrastructure, yet did not agree to a broader ceasefire proposed by the United States. The White House confirmed that a limited pause for energy target attacks would commence, paving the way for subsequent negotiations on a more comprehensive ceasefire.
The Ukrainian Air Force reported that Russia launched 145 drones, two ballistic missiles, and four anti-aircraft missiles targeting multiple regions, including Sumy, Odesa, and Kyiv. In the face of these assaults, 72 drones were successfully intercepted and destroyed. Attacks led to damage of civilian infrastructure, notably a hospital and electricity systems that are essential for railway operations, although services remained functional despite initial power outages.
Casualty figures reported by Ukrainian officials noted one individual lost their life and 14 sustained injuries as a result of the attacks, illustrating the severe impact of this conflict. President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the nighttime assaults, emphasizing that such actions deteriorate the energy sector and disrupt everyday life, underscoring the necessity for continued pressure on Russia for a lasting peace.
In retaliation, Russia’s defense ministry claimed to have intercepted 57 Ukrainian drones, with 35 destroyed over the Kursk border region. A Ukrainian drone also reportedly ignited a fire at an oil depot in Krasnodar. Russian officials confirmed that emergency efforts, involving over 200 personnel, were underway to manage the blaze.
Putin’s initial acceptance of a halt on energy infrastructure attacks was conveyed during his call with Trump, where he directed the military accordingly. However, the Kremlin outlined tough conditions for a broader ceasefire, including halting foreign military support for Ukraine and ceasing any mobilization efforts by Ukrainian forces. In response, Zelensky expressed the need to ascertain further details regarding this proposal, cautioning that Russia may not be genuinely committed to a ceasefire.
The ongoing conflict has led to a scheduled prisoner swap anticipated to occur on Wednesday, with 175 individuals set to be exchanged, including 23 critically injured Ukrainian soldiers. These developments mark a significant chapter in the ongoing conflict and are being monitored closely as negotiations progress.
The overnight exchanges of aerial assaults between Ukraine and Russia exemplify the ongoing volatility following the recent Trump-Putin conversation. While a short-term pause on energy attacks was announced, the failure to establish a comprehensive ceasefire highlights the challenges faced in negotiating peace. Zelensky’s remarks reflect skepticism regarding Russia’s intentions, as both sides prepare for potential prisoner exchanges amidst continuing hostilities.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
