Numerous Ukrainian and Russian prisoners of war have been repatriated following an extensive exchange, one of the most significant between the two nations in recent months. The United Arab Emirates played a crucial role in facilitating this diplomatic breakthrough. Over the past few weeks, negotiations took place, leading to the release of captives from both sides on January 3. This exchange represents the most substantial of its kind since the commencement of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, expressed his joy regarding the occasion in a video statement.
Dmytro Lubinets, the Human Rights Ombudsman, is said to have verified that Ukraine welcomed 230 military personnel and a minimum of six civilians as part of the agreement. Although the details are not entirely clear, indications point to the possibility that some of these individuals had been held captive since the beginning of 2022.
The Ministry of Defence in Russia verified the reception of 248 soldiers as part of the exchange. The MoD announced its commitment to offering prompt medical and psychological assistance, along with rehabilitation services, to the returning servicemen.
Nonetheless, the ministry did not specify the number of soldiers in need of such care or disclose information about any who may have suffered illnesses or injuries during their captivity by Ukrainian forces.
The Ministry of Defence in Russia shared a video on Telegram depicting soldiers boarding a bus for their journey home and later arriving in Belgorod. A man, expressing excitement about being on home soil in less than five hours, enthusiastically remarked that it would be a delightful experience.
The extensive swap of prisoners represents an uncommon moment of collaboration amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Tensions persist over a significant portion of the border they share, and there are no indications of the hostilities ceasing in the near future.
Notably, Russia asserts that it thwarted two distinct retaliatory missile attacks in Belgorod and Sevastopol shortly after the prisoner exchange, yet Ukraine’s military leaders have not acknowledged responsibility for these incidents.
The United Arab Emirates’ impartial diplomatic relations with both Russia and Ukraine position it as a suitable mediator for this prisoner exchange and potential future talks. In numerous instances, it has been successful in mediating in ways that leaders from other nations could not. While the Emirates actively advocate for peace between the two countries, a comprehensive resolution to the crisis has not yet been negotiated.
