Russia, Ukraine each free first 390 prisoners in start of war's biggest swap
- On May 23, 2025, Russia and Ukraine completed the first phase of a prisoner exchange in Istanbul, releasing nearly 800 detainees total in the largest swap since the war began.
- The exchange follows a 1,000-for-1,000 prisoner swap agreement reached during rare direct talks in Istanbul, amid stalled peace efforts and Russia rejecting an immediate ceasefire.
- The group released to Ukraine included approximately 270 military personnel and 120 civilians, with videos showing men in fatigues wrapped in Ukrainian flags and greeted by villagers.
- Ukrainian President Zelenskyy stated on social media, "We are bringing our people home," and called the exchange the only significant outcome of last week's Istanbul meeting.
- The exchange offers relief to families and is expected to continue over the weekend, but ongoing Russian demands and rejection of ceasefire signal that diplomatic progress remains limited.
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Russia, Ukraine Send Prisoners Home to Families
Hundreds of prisoners of war returned home Friday to emotional reunions as Russia and Ukraine carried out their largest swap since the fighting began. More exchanges are ahead over the next few days, the New York Times reports, until each side has received 1,000 freed prisoners. "We are bringing...
·Miami, United States
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Leaning Left59Leaning Right53Center76Last UpdatedBias Distribution40% Center
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