Ukrainian forces have welcomed home 390 servicemen freed in the initial stage of a 1,000 for 1,000 prisoner swap with Russia. Under grey skies at the border crossing, buses bearing the released troops rolled in to cheers from waiting families. Parents, siblings and friends embraced loved ones who had endured months in captivity, many overcome with relief and gratitude. Medical teams stood by to provide immediate care, hot meals and fresh mobile phones so the returnees could reconnect with relatives.
Among those released was Corporal Oleksandr, held since last autumn. “Stepping back on Ukrainian soil felt like rebirth,” he said, tears in his eyes. Officers then briefed the men on next steps, ensuring accurate information before official statements. Defence Minister Rustem Umerov hailed the exchange as the beginning of a broader effort and appealed for an information silence to protect ongoing negotiations. “Every person returned is a victory,” he said, “but this is only phase one.”
International partners praised the humane gesture, while critics of the Russian dictator decried his continued brutality towards captives. The released soldiers were escorted to rehabilitation centres across Ukraine, where they will receive further medical checks and psychological support.
