Official announcements from the governments of Ukraine, Russia, or the mediating country, and verified news reports

Ukraine and Russia Exchange 115 Prisoners Each in UAE-Mediated Swap via Belarus

Aug 24, 2024, 11:05 AM

Ukraine and Russia have conducted a prisoner exchange, each releasing 115 military personnel. The exchange was mediated by the United Arab Emirates, marking the first such swap since Ukraine launched its offensive inside Russia this month. The Ukrainian soldiers, who were returned from Russian captivity, include members of the National Guard, Armed Forces, Navy, and State Border Guard Service. Meanwhile, Russia retrieved conscripts captured in the Kursk region. The exchange took place with the assistance of the UAE, which played a crucial role in facilitating the negotiations. The Ukrainian servicemen were captured in locations including Chornobyl, Mariupol, Chonhar, and Hostomiel, and the exchange involved transit through Belarus.