Russia has accused Ukraine of indefinitely postponing a planned prisoner exchange and the acceptance of over 1,200 bodies of deceased soldiers, escalating tensions amid ongoing conflict. Kremlin aide Vladimir Medinsky stated on Saturday that the delay occurred despite Russia’s readiness to proceed under the Istanbul agreements, which outline humanitarian measures between the two nations.
Medinsky claimed Russia had prepared 6,000 bodies of Ukrainian servicemen for transfer, with 1,212 already placed in refrigerated containers at an exchange point. A list of 640 prisoners categorized as wounded, seriously ill, or under age 25 was also reportedly shared with Ukraine to initiate the swap. "We acted in strict accordance with the agreements," Medinsky emphasized in a Telegram post.
Ukraine has not yet publicly responded to the allegations. The stalled process raises questions about the viability of recent diplomatic efforts and highlights the human toll of the conflict. Analysts suggest such delays could further strain negotiations, with implications for regional stability and international humanitarian law.
