Russia and Ukraine conducted a significant prisoner exchange on Saturday, swapping 175 service members each, just hours before a temporary ceasefire was set to take effect for Orthodox Easter. The mediation for this exchange was facilitated by the United Arab Emirates.
This development follows a night of intense drone activity. Ukraine's Air Force reported Russia launched at least 160 drones, resulting in four fatalities and dozens of injuries, particularly in the eastern and southern regions, with the Odesa region suffering significant damage to residential areas and a kindergarten.
Russia's Defense Ministry stated that 99 Ukrainian drones were intercepted overnight over Russian territory and occupied Crimea.
Russian President Vladimir Putin had previously declared a 32-hour ceasefire, effective from Saturday afternoon through Sunday, describing it as a "humanitarian" gesture. However, Moscow continues to pursue a comprehensive settlement based on its existing demands.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy pledged adherence to the ceasefire, viewing it as a potential step toward peace. He also issued a stern warning of a swift military response to any violations, stating that while Ukraine will observe the ceasefire, they will "respond strictly in kind."