According to statements from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russia’s defense ministry, each side released 95 soldiers as part of the exchange. Zelensky announced the release of Ukrainian servicemen, including members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the National Guard, and border guards, expressing gratitude to those involved in facilitating the exchange, particularly mentioning the United Arab Emirates as the mediator.
“On behalf of our entire team, we continue to bring our people home,” Zelensky stated in a post on Telegram.
Russia’s defense ministry also confirmed the release of 95 Russian servicemen, attributing the successful exchange to a negotiation process.
The prisoner exchange is part of ongoing efforts between Russia and Ukraine, marked by sporadic agreements amidst the broader conflict that began with Russia’s invasion in February 2022. Russian President Vladimir Putin previously stated that 1,348 Russian soldiers were held in Ukrainian captivity, while Russia held 6,465 Ukrainian prisoners.
In a rare instance of direct talks, officials from Moscow and Kyiv’s human rights commissioners met during the exchange. They discussed humanitarian actions, including efforts to reunify families affected by the conflict.
The issue of forcibly deported Ukrainian children from territories under Russian control remains contentious, with Kyiv accusing Moscow of such actions and seeking their return. Moscow, in turn, asserts that these children were relocated for their safety.
Efforts to resolve these humanitarian issues have seen some progress, including through international mediation such as deals brokered by Qatar.
The prisoner exchange underscores a rare area of cooperation amid ongoing hostilities and diplomatic tensions between Russia and Ukraine.
