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Kyiv/Moscow, January 4, 2024 - Ukraine and Russia have carried out their first major prisoner exchange since last August, in a deal negotiated with help from the United Arab Emirates.
The exchange, which took place on January 3, saw nearly 500 prisoners of war returned home by both sides. According to Ukrainian sources, Kyiv handed over 248 Russian military personnel in exchange for the release of 230 Ukrainians, including both military personnel and six civilians.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the numbers, stating that the deal represented "the largest" prisoner swap since Russia's invasion of Ukraine began in late February 2023. The released Ukrainians included soldiers, border guards, and navy personnel who had been captured during months of intense fighting.
Russia also confirmed the exchange, with state television channel RT reporting that Moscow had secured the release of 173 Russian civilians and military in the deal. Margarita Simonovna, the channel's editor-in-chief, said the prisoners were now being provided medical treatment after their ordeal.
The agreement was mediated by the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In a statement, the UAE thanked both Ukraine and Russia for their cooperation and responsiveness to the diplomatic efforts. It reiterated the UAE's commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.
International humanitarian law requires the repatriation of captured soldiers after active hostilities cease. However, some critics argue that Russia's delay in facilitating prisoner exchanges may constitute a violation of provisions in the Geneva Conventions. Russia has also faced controversy for putting some captured Ukrainians on trial, though it claims the convictions were lawful.
The mass prisoner swap will provide relief to many families on both sides and offers a rare sign of cooperation amidst the bitter fighting. It remains to be seen if it can help build momentum for further negotiations to end the nine-month war.
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