How Many Bodies of Soldiers Were Repatriated to Ukraine?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, Ukraine has successfully repatriated a total of 1,212 bodies of servicemen lost during the ongoing conflict with Russia. This repatriation was made possible through a collaborative effort involving various Ukrainian agencies and the International Committee of the Red Cross, marking a crucial step in the ongoing humanitarian efforts amidst the war.
Key Takeaways
- 1,212 Ukrainian servicemen's remains returned home amidst ongoing conflict.
- Efforts coordinated by Ukrainian Armed Forces and International Committee of the Red Cross.
- Repatriation part of agreement established in Istanbul.
- Both sides are navigating complex negotiations regarding prisoners of war.
- Communication continues as both nations seek resolution.
Kyiv, June 11 (NationPress) A total of 1,212 bodies of Ukrainian servicemen who lost their lives in the conflict with Russia have been returned to their homeland, according to a statement from Ukraine's Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War issued on Wednesday.
This repatriation was facilitated by the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and other organizations.
The agency also expressed its appreciation to the International Committee of the Red Cross for its crucial role in aiding the return of the deceased, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
The repatriation is part of an agreement reached during discussions between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul, Turkey on June 2. The initial phase of the prisoner exchange was executed on Monday as per this agreement.
On June 10, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov remarked that Russia had consented to return the bodies of fallen Ukrainian soldiers and had been awaiting the Ukrainian representatives at the border for several days.
Peskov expressed hope that the remains of deceased Russian soldiers would also be handed over soon.
"There is no conclusive agreement yet; communication is ongoing, and the numbers are being reconciled," he stated, indicating that once an understanding is reached, Moscow anticipates the exchange of deceased soldiers.
The Russian Defence Ministry confirmed in a statement that "the first group of Russian servicemen under the age of 25 was returned from the region controlled by Kyiv".
A similar number of Ukrainian prisoners of war were also released, the ministry added.
On Sunday, Russia delivered the initial batch of 1,212 bodies of Ukrainian soldiers to the designated border exchange point in accordance with the agreements made in Istanbul, according to Lt General Zorin.
Zorin, who is also part of the Russian negotiating team, mentioned that Ukraine had not initiated contact, hence the transfer of the bodies and the exchange of prisoners had not yet occurred.
Some foreign media personnel present at the agreed exchange location inspected some of the refrigerated trucks carrying the bodies.
Zorin further stated that trains carrying additional bodies of Ukrainian servicemen would soon head towards the border, adding that Russia is awaiting official confirmation from Kyiv for the transfer of Ukrainian soldiers' remains next week.
This situation is unfolding amid ongoing tensions regarding a prisoner swap between both sides. Russia accused Ukraine on Saturday of delaying a planned prisoner exchange over the weekend, while Ukraine refuted the claim and called on Russia to cease its "dirty games."
Point of View
We stand firm in our commitment to report on the complexities of conflict with empathy and integrity. The repatriation of soldiers is a somber reminder of the cost of war, and it underscores the urgent need for dialogue and peace in the region.
NationPress
12/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many bodies were repatriated to Ukraine?
A total of 1,212 bodies of Ukrainian servicemen killed in the conflict with Russia have been repatriated.
What role did the International Committee of the Red Cross play?
The International Committee of the Red Cross assisted significantly in facilitating the return of the soldiers' bodies.
What was the agreement made in Istanbul?
The agreement reached in Istanbul on June 2 included the repatriation of fallen soldiers and initiated the first phase of a prisoner exchange.
What did Dmitry Peskov say about the exchange?
Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia had agreed to return the bodies and was awaiting further communication from Ukraine.
What is the current status of the prisoner swap?
Despite the repatriation of bodies, the exchange of prisoners has not yet taken place due to lack of contact between the two sides.
