Ukraine and Russia Prepare for Major Prisoner Exchange Amidst Ongoing Conflict

Ukraine and Russia Prepare for Major Prisoner Exchange

Ukraine and Russia are reportedly on the verge of a significant prisoner swap, potentially the largest since the escalation of the conflict in 2022. While details remain scarce, reports suggest an agreement to exchange 1,000 prisoners of war on each side emerged from recent negotiations in Istanbul.

Details of the Exchange

Despite the lack of official confirmation from either Kyiv or Moscow, sources indicate that the exchange process is underway, possibly spanning three days near the Belarus border. These developments follow face-to-face talks between low-level delegations from both countries in Turkey, the first such meeting since March 2022, although those discussions failed to yield progress toward a ceasefire.

Ongoing Peace Negotiations

Meanwhile, discussions surrounding potential peace negotiations continue. Although Italy has offered the Vatican as a mediator, Russia maintains its position that Ukraine's leader lacks legitimacy, demanding new elections before any agreement. Despite the ongoing disagreements, the prisoner swap offers a glimmer of hope amidst the protracted conflict.