Ukraine and Russia have initiated the largest prisoner exchange since the onset of the war in 2022, each side releasing 390 individuals, comprising 270 soldiers and 120 civilians. The exchange, agreed upon during recent talks in Istanbul, is expected to continue over the weekend, with both nations planning to release a total of 1,000 prisoners each.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the return of 390 Ukrainians, emphasizing the importance of bringing all captives home. He expressed gratitude to those involved in securing the releases and pledged ongoing diplomatic efforts to facilitate further exchanges.
The initial phase of the exchange took place at the Belarus-Ukraine border, where freed Ukrainian prisoners were met with emotional reunions in the Chernihiv region. Many had been held in captivity for over a year, enduring harsh conditions.
U.S. President Donald Trump, who advocated for the Istanbul talks, praised the exchange as a potential step toward broader peace efforts. He stated, “This could lead to something big,” expressing hope that the humanitarian gesture might pave the way for renewed negotiations.
Despite the successful exchange, no ceasefire has been established. Russia continues military operations, and recent missile strikes have targeted southern Ukraine, including the Odesa and Kherson regions.
The prisoner swap stands as a significant humanitarian development amid ongoing hostilities, offering a glimmer of hope for future diplomatic progress.
