President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced the release of 175 Ukrainian defenders from Russian captivity, with another 22 returning to Ukraine thanks to external efforts. This marks one of the largest exchanges of prisoners since the beginning of the war.
Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the return of the brave men and women who had fought for Ukraine’s freedom, including soldiers from the beleaguered “Azovstal” steel plant in Mariupol.
The President shared the update on social media, emphasizing the importance of the operation, which he described as bringing home both soldiers who fought on the front lines and those who were persecuted by Russia on fabricated charges.
“Today is another day when Ukraine is returning its people,” Zelenskyy wrote. “175 of our defenders have been released from Russian captivity. Another 22 defenders are returning home thanks to measures outside of exchanges.
Among them are seriously wounded soldiers and soldiers who were persecuted by Russia for fabricated crimes. All of them will be provided with the necessary medical and psychological assistance immediately.”
The group of released soldiers includes members of Ukraine’s Armed Forces, Navy, National Guard, Territorial Defense Forces, and Border Guard Service. They defended Ukraine in various key regions, including Mariupol, at “Azovstal,” and in Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, Kharkiv, Mykolaiv, Zaporizhzhia, Sumy, and Kursk.
Zelenskyy highlighted the international cooperation that facilitated the exchange, particularly thanking the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for their crucial role in making the exchange possible. The UAE’s involvement in the process underscores the importance of diplomatic collaboration in these difficult times.
“I want to thank the team searching for Ukrainian prisoners and managing exchanges. Their efforts have provided results that give hope,” Zelenskyy added. “And we are grateful to all our partners, especially the United Arab Emirates, for making today’s exchange possible.”
The Russian Ministry of Defense also confirmed the exchange, which saw 175 Ukrainian soldiers and 22 wounded individuals transferred to Ukraine. This development brings relief to many families, offering a glimmer of hope amid the ongoing conflict.
As the war continues, these exchanges remain vital in returning home those who have been taken prisoner, and the Ukrainian government remains committed to securing the release of its defenders.
