Sun May 25 08:16:48 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Russia launched a massive aerial attack on Ukraine for the second consecutive night, resulting in at least 12 deaths and numerous injuries. Ukraine’s air force reported the attack involved hundreds of drones and missiles, targeting various regions. The attacks coincided with a major prisoner swap agreement between Ukraine and Russia, with both sides releasing hundreds of prisoners over the weekend. Both countries reported drone attacks on their respective territories and claimed interceptions.

**News Article:**

**Russia Launches Largest Air Assault in Weeks as Prisoner Swap Continues**

**Kyiv, Ukraine** – At least 12 people are dead following a massive Russian aerial attack on Ukraine, marking the largest assault in several weeks. The attack occurred overnight Sunday, the second consecutive night of intensified strikes, as Ukraine and Russia continue a major prisoner exchange.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha described the night as “sleepless,” reporting hundreds of drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles launched into Ukrainian cities and communities. Ukraine’s air force reported that 298 drones and 69 missiles targeted various regions, affecting at least 22 areas. At least four people were killed and 16 injured in Kyiv. Other casualties included three children killed in the Zhytomyr region and fatalities in Mykolaiv and Khmelnytskyi.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported damage to civilian infrastructure in the capital.

Meanwhile, Russia’s Ministry of Defence claimed to have shot down 110 Ukrainian drones. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said 12 drones heading towards the Russian capital were intercepted, leading to restrictions at several airports.

The renewed attacks coincide with the largest prisoner swap between the two nations since the beginning of the conflict. Following talks in Istanbul, both sides agreed to exchange 1,000 prisoners of war and civilian detainees. Over the weekend, Ukraine and Russia each released hundreds of soldiers and civilians, with officials from both sides indicating further releases are expected.

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