Russia and Ukraine exchange 200 prisoners of war

Ukraine and Russia have released 200 prisoners of war (POWs) each, according to officials from both countries. This exchange is part of a deal agreed upon during talks in Geneva last month, which will see a total of 500 POWs freed by each side. The remaining 300 are expected to be released on Friday.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to the United States for its role in facilitating this exchange. He stated that the release of these prisoners is “good news” for all parties involved, including Ukraine’s families and the entire country.

Video footage shared by Ukrainian Human Rights Commissioner Dmytro Lubinets showed servicemen leaving buses with Ukrainian flags, shouting slogans, and embracing their loved ones who had gathered to welcome them. The Russian Defence Ministry also published footage of its soldiers boarding a bus, cheering, and draped in Russian flags.

Kyiv and Moscow have conducted regular POW exchanges throughout the conflict, which has lasted for four years. US-brokered negotiations to end the conflict have stalled despite recent talks in Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates. Territory remains a point of contention, with Russia demanding that Ukraine relinquish control over 20% of the eastern region of Donetsk.

Ukraine has also sought security guarantees from its Western allies to prevent future Russian attacks. US President Donald Trump expressed frustration with Ukrainian counterpart Zelenskyy in an interview, stating that he needs to “get on the ball” and secure a deal. Trump also stated that he believes Russian President Vladimir Putin is willing to make a deal.

Zelenskyy later posted on social media, reiterating Kyiv’s priority of ending the war. He emphasized the need for continued diplomatic efforts, including bilateral formats with the US, trilateral formats with Russia, and cooperation with European partners.

Source: Al Jazeera