Ukraine-Russia prisoner exchange led to hundreds of prisoners of war being swapped in a significant exchange brokered by the United Arab Emirates. On Monday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenksyy confirmed the release of 189 Ukrainians, while Russian officials announced 150 returned soldiers.
President Zelenksyy described the news as a positive development and shared photos of the freedmen waving Ukraine’s national flag. He acknowledged the UAE’s role in facilitating the exchange and promised ongoing efforts to secure the release of every remaining prisoner.
Among those freed were soldiers from Mariupol, the Chernobyl power plant, and Snake Island. Outside a northern Ukraine hospital, families anxiously awaited their loved ones, many held captive for over two years.
On the Russian side, troops released in Belarus received medical attention and were provided opportunities to reconnect with family members. Video footage from Russian human rights commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova showed soldiers gathering in winter gear.
This exchange marked the 59th swap since the full-scale invasion began and included severely injured prisoners of war. Kyiv estimates that Russia holds more than 8,000 Ukrainians in captivity, with many suffering from illnesses or injuries.
The Ukraine-Russia prisoner exchange highlights the human toll of the war and focuses on the continuing efforts to rescue prisoners of war. Zelenksyy pledged to keep working for those still detained, stating, “We are working to free everyone from Russian captivity. This is our goal. We do not forget anyone.”
