The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia has seen significant developments this weekend, with Russia claiming control over the town of Gilanoye-Pervoye in the Pokrovsk region, a strategic area for Ukrainian logistics. This announcement comes amid a backdrop of escalating drone attacks launched by Russia across Ukraine, with President Volodymyr Zelensky reporting that the Ukrainian Air Force successfully intercepted 72 out of 76 drones aimed at various regions, including Cherkasy and Odessa.
In response to the intensifying attacks, Ukraine has renewed its call for Western allies to permit deeper strikes into Russian territory. Presidential adviser Andriy Yermak emphasized that targeting Russian military infrastructure would expedite the resolution of the conflict. However, discussions between US President Joe Biden and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer yielded no immediate changes in policy regarding long-range weapon usage for Ukraine.
As the military situation evolves, a prisoner exchange was announced, mediated by the UAE, resulting in the release of 206 prisoners from both sides. This exchange highlights ongoing humanitarian efforts amidst the war, which has seen over 50 such swaps since its inception in February 2022.
