On May 15, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that Russian attacks would not go unpunished after a meeting with senior military, security, and intelligence officials on long-range strikes. Kyiv observed a day of mourning following the May 14 attack on a nine-story apartment building in the Darnytskyi district, which killed at least 24 people, including three children.
Ukraine's Air Force described the aerial assault as one of Russia's largest since the war began more than four years ago. Zelenskyy also referenced Moscow's efforts to 'drag Belarus deeper into the war,' accusing Russia of preparing strikes on more than 20 decision-making centers across Ukraine, including presidential offices and residences, government buildings, and military headquarters.
Ukraine retaliated on May 15 with a large-scale long-range drone attack targeting energy and military infrastructure in several Russian regions. According to the governor of Ryazan region, at least four people, including one child, were killed in a drone strike on the city of Ryazan. Ukrainian drones also hit a local oil refinery, one of Russia's largest.
Prisoner Exchange
Images of Ukrainian soldiers weeping and Russian soldiers rejoicing emerged on May 15 as the two countries completed a swap of 205 prisoners of war each. The exchange was part of a three-day ceasefire brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump last week, with each side expected to exchange a total of 1,000 prisoners.
Bodies of those killed in combat were also repatriated, with Russia handing over 526 bodies in exchange for the remains of 41 of its soldiers. Last weekend, Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested the war was nearing its end, a comment later confirmed by Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. However, Zelenskyy rejected Putin's remarks, claiming Moscow has no intention of ending the conflict.
President Trump, who pledged to end the war during his 2024 campaign, said the attack on the Kyiv apartment building could delay peace efforts. 'It's something we want to see resolved. Until last night, things seemed good, but they (Ukrainians) took a heavy hit. So it will happen (the war ending). But it's unfortunate,' Trump said.
