2025-05-25T11:10:00Z

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In a significant development amidst the ongoing conflict, Ukraine and Russia have successfully concluded a major prisoner swap, termed a “1,000 for 1,000” exchange. This operation lasted for three days and took place against a backdrop of intense Russian airstrikes targeting Ukrainian cities.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made an announcement on Sunday, revealing that the final group of 303 Ukrainian captives scheduled for release had arrived back from Russia. This marked the conclusion of what has been characterized as the largest prisoner exchange between the two nations since the onset of hostilities.

“Today, warriors of our Armed Forces, the National Guard, the State Border Guard Service, and the State Special Transport Service are returning home,” Zelenskyy shared through a post on the Telegram app, expressing gratitude towards all those involved in the exchange effort.

In a separate message on the platform X, he added, “I thank the team that worked around the clock to successfully carry out this exchange. We will definitely bring back every single one of our people from Russian captivity.” His statements reflect a strong commitment to ensuring the safe return of all Ukrainian personnel captured during the conflict.

Images released from the exchange depict the poignant moments of reunion, with many of the returned prisoners sporting shaved heads and wrapped in Ukrainian flags. Emotional scenes unfolded as these individuals were welcomed back by their families and loved ones in Ukraine, highlighting the human cost of the ongoing war.

The prisoner exchange was negotiated in Istanbul just over a week prior to its execution, and it stands as one of the most comprehensive swaps involving not only military personnel but also civilians caught in the crossfire of war. According to Ukraine’s Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War (PoWs), among those released were 70 men who had previously fought valiantly during the defense of Mariupol amidst the protracted siege in 2022.

On the other hand, Russia also acknowledged the completion of the final exchange, confirming that it had successfully traded 303 Ukrainian prisoners of war for an equal number of Russian soldiers held by Ukraine. The Russian Defence Ministry stated, “In accordance with the Russian-Ukrainian agreements reached in Istanbul on May 16, the Russian and Ukrainian sides have carried out the exchange of 1,000 people for 1,000 people over the weekend.”

Despite initial hopes that this exchange could pave the way for a temporary ceasefire, the reality on the ground has been starkly different. Following the commencement of the swap on Friday, Ukraine endured two consecutive days of severe Russian drone and missile attacks. Tragically, these assaults resulted in the loss of 12 lives and left countless others injured, dampening any optimism for immediate peace.