Ukraine and Russia facilitated their first prisoner exchange in nearly four months, releasing a total of 150 individuals following negotiations mediated by the United Arab Emirates, Reuters reports.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that 75 Ukrainian prisoners, including both military personnel and civilians, were returned from Russia. Notably, among the released Ukrainians were 19 defenders of Snake Island, symbolizing Ukrainian resistance during the conflict’s early stages. Additionally, Russia returned the bodies of 212 Ukrainian defenders as part of the swap.
Russia’s Defence Ministry reported that Ukraine reciprocated by releasing 75 individuals to Russia as part of the agreement.
