In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, Russia and Ukraine orchestrated a major exchange of prisoners of war (POWs) after nearly five months of negotiations, with over 200 individuals released by each side. The complex negotiation process involved mediation by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a key player acknowledged by both Moscow and Kyiv.
Russia’s Defence Ministry reported the release of 248 military personnel by Ukraine, while Kyiv confirmed the return of 230 individuals, comprising 224 soldiers and six civilians. Described as the largest documented troop swap to date, the exchange marks a positive development amid the ongoing conflict between the two nations.
The UAE’s foreign ministry acknowledged its pivotal role in facilitating the negotiation, emphasizing its “strong friendly relations” with both Moscow and Kyiv. The UAE expressed commitment to further humanitarian efforts and offered to contribute to finding a peaceful solution to the protracted war.
A video released by Ukrainian authorities depicted returning prisoners draped in the national flag, singing the anthem and expressing patriotism. While most appeared to be in good health, the scenes were emotional and reflective of the relief felt by those returning home.
The Russian Ministry of Defence shared a similar video, showing uniformed prisoners arriving in Belgorod in buses. The returning soldiers conveyed their anticipation of being reunited with their families, expressing joy at the prospect of returning home.
Despite the absence of comprehensive talks on ending the 22-month war, both Kyiv and Moscow have engaged in numerous prisoner swaps since Russia’s invasion in February 2022. However, the frequency of exchanges declined in 2023, making this recent swap a noteworthy event.
Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s HUR Military Intelligence agency, highlighted the “direct role” played by the UAE in facilitating the challenging swap. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy hailed the day as “truly great for Ukraine” and pledged to continue swaps, emphasizing the importance of an expanding “exchange fund” for captured Russian soldiers.
The released Ukrainian prisoners included individuals from various branches of the armed forces, some of whom had participated in the defense of the Azovstal steel plant in Mariupol. On the Russian side, the Defence Ministry assured that the released prisoners would undergo medical checks and receive necessary treatment.
Russia’s Commissioner for Human Rights, Tatyana Moskalkova, expressed gratitude to President Vladimir Putin, the military, and intelligence services for their efforts in executing the successful exchange, marking a potential step toward easing tensions between the two nations.
