On January 18, 2025, the Russian military launched a significant attack on Ukraine, deploying 39 Shahed drones and four Iskander-M ballistic missiles. The Ukrainian Air Force reported the interception of two ballistic missiles and 24 drones across various regions, including Poltava, Sumy, and Kharkiv. However, the attack resulted in four fatalities and three injuries in Kyiv due to debris from intercepted missiles.
Furthermore, Zaporizhzhia was also targeted, with damage reported to buildings and vehicles, leading to ten injuries, including one individual in critical condition.
In a contrasting development, a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas appears imminent. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's cabinet approved the deal, which includes a six-week halt to hostilities and the release of hostages held by Hamas. The ceasefire is set to begin on January 19, with the first group of hostages expected to be freed shortly thereafter.
Negotiations facilitated by Qatar and the United States have led to an agreement on the release of 737 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the hostages. The initial phase of the exchange is scheduled for the afternoon of January 19, amidst ongoing discussions about the terms of a more permanent ceasefire.