What is the Latest on the Russia-Ukraine Prisoner Exchange?
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Synopsis
In a significant development on June 20, Russia and Ukraine executed another prisoner swap under agreements made in Istanbul. Both nations are seeing the return of military personnel, showcasing ongoing diplomatic efforts amidst the conflict. Stay tuned to learn more about the implications of these exchanges.
Key Takeaways
- Russia and Ukraine conducted a prisoner swap on June 20.
- Agreements were made in Istanbul for the exchange.
- Returned servicemen are receiving medical assistance in Belarus.
- Ukraine's Coordinating Headquarters confirmed the return of various military personnel.
- Discussions for an all-for-all exchange continue.
Kyiv/Moscow, June 20 (NationPress) On Friday, Russia and Ukraine executed yet another prisoner exchange, as announced by the Russian defence ministry.
Following the agreements made in Istanbul on June 2, a contingent of Russian military personnel was repatriated from Ukrainian-held territory on June 20. The ministry did not specify how many prisoners were involved in this exchange.
"In exchange, a group of Ukrainian Armed Forces prisoners of war was also transferred," the ministry noted.
The returned Russian servicemen are currently in Belarus, where they are receiving essential psychological and medical care. All personnel will eventually be taken to Russia for further treatment and rehabilitation at facilities operated by the Russian defense ministry, Xinhua news agency reported.
In a related statement, Ukraine's Coordinating Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War confirmed that the repatriated individuals include sergeants and soldiers from various units of the Ukrainian Navy, Land Forces, Territorial Defence, Airborne Forces, and others.
These released servicemen will undergo medical evaluations, treatment, and rehabilitation at designated facilities, according to the headquarters.
During their latest discussions in Istanbul, both nations agreed on an "all-for-all" exchange, which includes seriously ill and wounded prisoners, as well as soldiers under 25 years of age.
Russian President Vladimir Putin mentioned on Thursday that Moscow is willing to return the remains of an additional 3,000 deceased Ukrainian soldiers.
"We have already returned the remains of 6,000 fallen Ukrainian soldiers. We are prepared to hand over nearly 3,000 more," he stated during a meeting with international news agency heads in Saint Petersburg.
"These figures are undoubtedly tragic and sorrowful," Putin added.
According to Putin, the peace discussions in Istanbul are meaningful and yield positive results.
"We have already agreed on the exchange of 1,200 prisoners. So far, we have released 500 and received 400 back, and I am confident we will receive all those we are supposed to. Regrettably, it is difficult to address this topic. We have returned over 6,000 bodies of fallen Ukrainian servicemen, while only receiving 57 in return. We are now ready to deliver another 3,000, which remains a positive outcome of the Istanbul talks," the Russian leader remarked.
The second round of peace discussions occurred in Istanbul on June 2.
During this meeting, the delegations explored the potential for a ceasefire and preparations for a new prisoner exchange.
Specifically, both parties agreed on the exchange of certain categories of prisoners and the mutual return of fallen soldiers' remains based on a 6,000-for-6,000 agreement.
The initial phase of the prisoner exchange was conducted on June 9, followed by subsequent rounds on June 11 and 13.
On June 14, the fourth prisoner exchange took place.
Through these exchanges, the bodies of 3,600 deceased soldiers have been returned to Ukraine.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach the ongoing situation between Russia and Ukraine with a balanced perspective. The recent prisoner exchange signifies an effort towards negotiation and dialogue, even amidst the backdrop of conflict. While the humanitarian implications are profound, it is crucial to remain aware of the broader political landscape and the ongoing struggles faced by both nations.
NationPress
20/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the date of the latest prisoner swap?
The latest prisoner swap occurred on June 20.
Where did the prisoner exchange take place?
The agreements for the exchange were made in Istanbul, Turkey.
What is the significance of the prisoner exchange?
The exchange represents ongoing diplomatic efforts and humanitarian considerations amidst the conflict.
How many Ukrainian soldiers' bodies has Russia agreed to return?
Russia has agreed to return the bodies of an additional 3,000 fallen Ukrainian soldiers.
What categories of prisoners are being exchanged?
The exchanges include seriously ill and wounded prisoners, as well as soldiers under the age of 25.
