Prisoner Swap and Drone Strikes Precede Easter Truce Between Russia and Ukraine

Russia and Ukraine carried out a prisoner exchange while both sides continued to launch drone strikes in the lead-up to an Easter truce. The swap saw dozens of captives returned to their home countries, offering relief to families after months of uncertainty. At the same time, overnight drone activity targeted military and infrastructure sites, underscoring how fragile any pause in fighting remains. The announced Easter truce was intended to create a short window for humanitarian activity and civilian movement, though both governments cautioned that violations could still occur if provocations continue.