In a recent development, Russia and Ukraine have successfully conducted a prisoner exchange, facilitated with the assistance of the United Arab Emirates. The swap involved the release of a significant number of captives from both sides, marking a positive step towards resolving tensions in the region.
Ukrainian President announced that a total of 189 Ukrainian prisoners, including military personnel, border guards, national guards, and two civilians, were freed as part of the exchange. Expressing gratitude towards the UAE for their role in negotiating the release, the President emphasized the importance of ensuring the return of all individuals held in Russian captivity.
On the other side, Russia's Defense Ministry confirmed the release of 150 Russian soldiers in the exchange. The discrepancy in the numbers of prisoners exchanged remains unclear, but efforts are ongoing to secure the freedom of all individuals held captive.
The released Ukrainian prisoners included defenders of Snake Island and troops who had defended the city of Mariupol during the conflict. President Zelenskyy highlighted the significance of each prisoner's return, sharing images of Ukrainian soldiers holding the country's flags as they prepared to head home.
Following their release, the Russian servicemen were initially taken to Belarus for psychological and medical assistance before being transferred to Russia. This prisoner exchange adds to the series of swaps that have taken place between the two countries over the course of the conflict.
Meanwhile, in a separate development, President Joe Biden announced a significant increase in military aid to Ukraine, with nearly $2.5 billion allocated to support Kyiv in its defense against Russian aggression. The move comes as the U.S. administration works swiftly to provide assistance to Ukraine before the upcoming transition of power.
