Russia and Ukraine Agree to Major Prisoner Exchange

BBC

The meeting between Russia and Ukraine in Türkiye.

In a notable development, Russia and Ukraine have agreed to exchange 1,000 prisoners of war each—the largest such swap since the conflict began in 2022. The deal was reached during peace talks held in Istanbul on 15 May, marking the first direct negotiations between the two countries in over three years.

The exchange is being viewed as a significant humanitarian gesture amid ongoing fighting, although broader ceasefire discussions remain at a standstill. Both parties have expressed hope that this step could lead to further dialogue and confidence-building efforts.

International observers, including Turkish officials who facilitated the talks, welcomed the agreement as a rare but encouraging sign of progress in a long and bitter war.



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