Russia and Ukraine conducted a major prisoner exchange on Sunday, returning 146 captured individuals to each side in a deal mediated by the United Arab Emirates. The swap marks a rare moment of cooperation amid ongoing tensions between the two nations.
Among those repatriated were eight residents of Russia's Kursk region, which saw brief Ukrainian military control during a 2024 incursion before being reclaimed by Russian forces. The released Russian servicemen are currently receiving psychological and medical support in Belarus prior to their return home.
This development follows the third round of peace talks held in Istanbul on July 23, 2025, where both parties agreed to exchange at least 1,200 prisoners each. Russian Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky characterized the agreement as "a humanitarian step toward rebuilding trust."
The UAE's mediation highlights growing Middle Eastern diplomatic engagement in Eurasian conflicts. Analysts suggest such exchanges could create momentum for broader negotiations, though both sides maintain entrenched positions on territorial disputes.
