Russia and Ukraine have carried out a large-scale exchange of war prisoners

In a significant development, Russia and Ukraine have conducted a major exchange of prisoners of war (POWs), marking the largest release of captives since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Ukrainian authorities reported that 230 Ukrainian prisoners of war returned home in this exchange, which is the first of its kind in nearly five months. Simultaneously, Russia’s Defense Ministry stated that 248 Russian servicemen have been released as part of this exchange, which was sponsored by the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The UAE played a crucial role in facilitating this successful swap, emphasizing the strong and friendly relations it maintains with both Russia and Ukraine. Despite Western sanctions on Russia and international pressure, the UAE has maintained close economic ties with Moscow.

Dmytro Lubinets, Ukraine’s human rights ombudsman, noted that this exchange marks the 49th such event during the ongoing war. Some of the Ukrainian prisoners had been held captive since 2022, including those who participated in significant battles for Ukraine, such as the defense of Snake Island and the city of Mariupol.

While the details of the exchange remain undisclosed, it is a positive step in reducing tensions between the two nations and offers hope for future negotiations to bring an end to the conflict in eastern Ukraine.