Moscow and Kyiv Swap Prisoners Amid Ukraine’s Independence Day
On Saturday, Russia and Ukraine conducted a notable prisoner exchange as Ukraine observed its third Independence Day since the onset of the Russian invasion. This exchange highlights the ongoing diplomatic efforts amidst the enduring conflict.
Significant Prisoner Swap
In a move that underscores the continuing complexity of the conflict, Russia and Ukraine exchanged over 100 prisoners of war. Ukraine announced the release of 115 servicemen, many of whom had been detained during the early stages of the invasion. Notably, this group includes nearly 50 soldiers captured from the Azovstal steelworks in Mariupol.
In response, Russia’s Defense Ministry revealed that the 115 Russian soldiers released were captured during a recent Ukrainian offensive in the Kursk region. These soldiers are currently in Belarus and will be transported to Russia for medical treatment and rehabilitation.
UAE’s Role in the Exchange
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that the United Arab Emirates facilitated this prisoner swap, marking the 55th such exchange since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022. Zelenskyy shared photos of the returning servicemen, who were seen wrapped in Ukrainian flags and appearing visibly thin.
“We remember every one of them. We are tirelessly working to bring everyone back,” Zelenskyy emphasized in his social media post.
The Human Cost of Conflict
Exchanges like these are rare and involve intricate preparations and diplomatic negotiations. Neither side discloses the total number of prisoners of war. The U.N. has reported severe mistreatment and neglect faced by Ukrainian POWs, with some cases involving torture. There have also been isolated reports of abuse of Russian soldiers during capture or transit.
Ongoing Attacks and Casualties
The conflict continues to inflict casualties on both sides. Recent Russian shelling in Kostiantynivka, located in Ukraine’s partially occupied eastern Donetsk region, resulted in five deaths and five injuries. In Kherson, Russian strikes killed two and wounded four, including a baby.
Ukraine’s air force intercepted and destroyed seven drones over the southern part of the country. Additionally, Russian bombers targeted Zmiinyi (Snake) Island with four cruise missiles, and the wider Kherson region experienced aerial bombings.
In response, Russia reported that its air defenses shot down seven drones overnight, including five over the Voronezh region, where two people were injured. Belgorod also reported injuries from a drone attack, while authorities in the Bryansk region reported no casualties from another drone.
Poland’s Support on Independence Day
As Ukraine marked its 33rd Independence Day, the focus was on honoring those lost in the ongoing conflict rather than celebrating. Polish President Andrzej Duda arrived in Kyiv early on Independence Day, symbolizing continued support from one of Ukraine’s key allies.
Duda’s visit, his fifth since the war began, emphasizes Poland’s unwavering support. Poland has played a significant role in providing arms, serving as a hub for Western weapons destined for Ukraine, and hosting tens of thousands of Ukrainian refugees.
A Glimpse of Hope Amidst the Conflict
Despite historical tensions and trade disputes, particularly over Ukrainian grain and past grievances, Poland’s commitment to supporting Ukraine remains strong. This continued solidarity provides a beacon of hope as Ukraine navigates the challenging landscape of ongoing conflict and recovery.