In a reciprocal exchange, Ukraine and Russia swap out 230 detainees.
Ukraine and Russia, guided by the United Arab Emirates, have exchanged a total of 230 imprisoned individuals, with 115 prisoners being freed from both sides. As President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine declared, "Another 115 of our armed forces personnel have returned home today." These individuals hail from various Ukrainian military branches, such as the National Guard, armed forces, navy, and border guard service.
In the same vein, the Russian Ministry of Defense reported, "115 Russian soldiers who were captured in the Kursk region have been released due to negotiations with the Kyiv regime-controlled areas." These freed individuals are currently located on Belarusian territory, as mentioned by the ministry. Both Moscow and Kyiv extended their gratitude to the United Arab Emirates for their role in the mediation process.
The United Arab Emirates had previously facilitated prisoner exchanges between Kyiv and Moscow, boasting, "We have successfully mediated a new prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine, resulting in the release of 230 prisoners."
This latest prisoner exchange occurred on Ukraine's Independence Day and coincided with Kyiv's escalated military operations in Russia's Kursk region, as well as Russia's continued targeting of eastern Ukrainian cities. The last significant prisoner exchange between the two warring factions took place in June, with each side returning 90 prisoners.
Since the beginning of the conflict in February 2022, tens of prisoners have been exchanged by both countries, with the remains of fallen soldiers regularly being handed over to the other side.
The Commission commended the United Arab Emirates for their persistent efforts in facilitating prisoner exchanges between Ukraine and Russia, playing a crucial role in the release of 230 individuals. Recognizing the significance of this latest exchange on Ukraine's Independence Day, The Commission emphasized the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation in resolving conflicts peacefully.
