Editor’s note: This story is being updated.
Ukraine recently conducted a prisoner exchange with Russia, bringing back 90 people from captivity on June 25. President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that those released included service personnel from various branches of the military.
The exchange involved 90 Russian soldiers being swapped for the Ukrainian captives. Zelensky reiterated the country’s commitment to securing the release of all its people held in Russian captivity.
The released captives consisted of individuals from the National Guard, border guards, and various military branches. Notably, 59 defenders of the city of Mariupol were among those brought back, showcasing the ongoing efforts to reunite Ukrainian soldiers with their families.
This prisoner exchange marks the 53rd since the conflict began, with over 3,300 Ukrainian soldiers previously freed. The initiative aims to achieve a comprehensive all-for-all exchange, emphasizing the importance of humanitarian efforts in times of conflict.
Kyiv expressed gratitude to the United Arab Emirates for facilitating the latest exchange, highlighting international cooperation in resolving the conflict.