In a significant development, Ukraine and Russia have confirmed their first prisoner exchange in almost four months, resulting in the liberation of 150 individuals.
The exchange was facilitated through negotiations mediated by the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy revealed that 75 Ukrainian prisoners, including four civilians and the remainder military personnel, had been repatriated from Russia.
Concurrently, Russia's Defense Ministry confirmed that Ukraine reciprocated by releasing 75 individuals, as reported by RIA news agency. The exchange was orchestrated under the auspices of the UAE.
The Coordinating Committee on Dealing with Prisoners of War in Ukraine stated, "After a long pause, another prisoner swap took place: 75 defenders and civilians were released from the enemy's captivity." Accompanying images depicted servicemen swathed in the national colors of blue and yellow.
Ukrainian authorities also announced the return of 19 defenders of Snake Island, a minuscule rocky islet in the Black Sea. Snake Island emerged as a symbol of Ukrainian resistance in the initial days of the conflict when Ukrainian guards rebuffed surrender demands from Russian forces.
In addition to the live prisoners, the committee disclosed that the remains of 212 Ukrainian defenders were returned by Russia as part of the exchange. This significant development marks a step forward in the ongoing conflict, demonstrating the potential for negotiation and compromise, even in the face of adversity.
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