In a noteworthy development during the ongoing war, Russia and Ukraine exchanged hundreds of prisoners in a swap brokered by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The exchange, announced on Monday, underscores international efforts to mediate amidst the prolonged conflict.
Details of the Exchange
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that 189 Ukrainian prisoners, including military personnel, border guards, national guards, and two civilians, were released. Meanwhile, Russia’s Defense Ministry reported the return of 150 Russian soldiers.
The reason behind the discrepancy in numbers between the two sides remains unclear.
Gratitude for the UAE’s Role
President Zelenskyy expressed his appreciation for the UAE’s involvement in brokering the deal, stating:
“We are working to free everyone from Russian captivity. We do not forget anyone.”
Photos shared by Zelenskyy showed Ukrainian soldiers, some holding blue-and-yellow flags, reunited and heading home.
Notable Prisoners Freed
Among those released were:
- Defenders of Snake Island: These troops gained recognition early in the war when Russia seized the island off the Black Sea port of Odesa.
- Mariupol Troops: Soldiers who resisted for nearly three months during the siege of Mariupol before its fall to Russian forces.
Zelenskyy called the return of these individuals “very good news for each of us.”
Rehabilitation and Support
Russian servicemen were initially transported to Belarus, where they received psychological and medical assistance before continuing to Russia, according to Moscow’s Defense Ministry.
Continued Efforts Amid Wartime
The exchange is part of an ongoing series of swaps conducted during the nearly three-year conflict. These exchanges highlight attempts to reduce human suffering on both sides despite the enduring hostilities.
US Support for Ukraine
The prisoner swap coincided with an announcement by U.S. President Joe Biden of an additional $2.5 billion in military aid to Ukraine. This move reflects the urgency of bolstering Kyiv’s defense capabilities ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s upcoming tenure.
