Russia, Ukraine Exchange 230 Prisoners of War

On August 24, 2024, Ukraine and Russia conducted a significant prisoner swap, exchanging 230 military personnel, with both sides releasing 115 soldiers each. This exchange was facilitated by the United Arab Emirates, which has previously played a mediation role in similar negotiations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the return of the soldiers from the National Guard, Armed Forces, Navy, and State Border Guard Service, emphasizing ongoing efforts to recover all military personnel and civilians in captivity. The Russian soldiers released are currently in Belarus for medical treatment after being captured during a recent Ukrainian border raid in the Kursk region. This swap coincided with Ukraine's Independence Day, marking the third since the conflict began in February 2022. The exchange reflects the continued efforts by both nations to negotiate prisoner releases amid ongoing military tensions.