ISTANBUL

Russia and Ukraine conducted a prisoner exchange Wednesday with each releasing 175 military personnel, according to statements from both sides.

Russia’s Defense Ministry announced that 175 Russian soldiers had been returned from Ukrainian-controlled territory following negotiations. Additionally, Moscow handed over 175 Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs), along with 22 severely wounded Ukrainian soldiers as a “gesture of goodwill.”

The ministry said the Russian servicemen were currently in Belarus receiving medical and psychological assistance before being transported to Russia for further treatment and rehabilitation.

Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed the return of 175 Ukrainian troops as well as 22 additional defenders, including severely wounded soldiers and three servicemen allegedly prosecuted by Russian authorities on fabricated charges.

Umerov expressed his gratitude to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for his commitment to securing prisoner releases as well as to the United Arab Emirates for its role in facilitating the exchange.

The UAE has played a mediating role in previous Russia-Ukraine prisoner exchanges, leveraging its diplomatic ties with both countries to facilitate humanitarian negotiations.