KYIV: Russia and Ukraine carried out another prisoner of war exchange on Thursday, with both sides confirming the return of captured soldiers in an emotional display of national pride and relief. Images released by officials showed returning troops draped in national flags, embracing loved ones and cheering.
Though the exact number of soldiers released was not disclosed, the exchange is part of a broader agreement reached during rare peace talks in Istanbul earlier this month—marking the first direct dialogue between the two nations in over three years.
The deal included the release of over 1,000 wounded, ill, or young prisoners from each side.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the exchange on social media, saying, “Our people are returning home from Russian captivity.” Many of the Ukrainian soldiers freed were reported to be suffering from severe health issues, having been held since the early months of Russia’s 2022 invasion.
Russia’s defense ministry also confirmed the operation, sharing images of its soldiers celebrating upon their return. Both countries have conducted multiple prisoner exchanges since the June 2 agreement.
Beyond the living, the Istanbul deal also included the repatriation of over 6,000 dead Ukrainian soldiers. Ukrainian officials have accused Moscow of hindering identification efforts by mixing Russian corpses with Ukrainian ones. Interior Minister Igor Klymenko cited an incident where a Russian soldier’s remains were returned dressed in full uniform and carrying Russian identification documents.
Despite ongoing negotiations, a ceasefire remains elusive. Russia continues to demand territorial concessions and a halt to Western military assistance as preconditions for peace—terms Kyiv firmly rejects.
