In a significant development, Russia and Ukraine announced the exchange of 150 prisoners from each side on Monday, marking the latest effort to alleviate tensions in the ongoing conflict. The Russian Defense Ministry confirmed the swap, highlighting the continued negotiations between the two nations.
Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky shared on Telegram that 189 Ukrainians have returned home, including 187 servicemen and two civilians who were captured in Mariupol. Among the released individuals are military personnel who defended key locations such as the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, the city of Mariupol, and Snake Island in the Black Sea.
The United Arab Emirates played a crucial role in facilitating this exchange, announcing that this marks the 10th successful swap of Russian and Ukrainian captives mediated by the UAE in 2024. The UAE Foreign Ministry emphasized the country's commitment to pursuing peaceful solutions and addressing the humanitarian impacts of the conflict, including support for refugees and captives.
To date, Russia and Ukraine have conducted 59 prisoner exchanges, according to the Coordinating Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War. These ongoing efforts underscore the importance of international mediation in striving for a resolution to the conflict.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
