Release of Ukrainian Prisoners of War: First Videos and Details of a Major Exchange
May 23 — Ukrainian authorities officially announced the return home of over 390 Ukrainians held in Russian captivity and in occupied territories. This occurred as a result of an early morning and highly significant prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia, involving high-ranking officials, experts from the Main Intelligence Directorate, the Security Service of Ukraine, and the Office of the President. According to official information, as part of this operation, 270 prisoners of war and 120 civilian citizens—victims of the war and occupation—were returned to Ukrainian soil. For the first time, video recordings appeared, where joyful and touching voices of soldiers and civilians who successfully returned to Ukraine can be heard. One of the first videos shows a young boy tearfully and with a smile saying: “Mom, I’ve been exchanged, I’m home!” The Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine (HUR MO), the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), and the Office of the President jointly released the first footage, which has become a symbol of hope and victory for the Ukrainian people. According to representatives of the security agencies, this large-scale exchange is the result of the titanic efforts of highly professional structures, including the Joint Center for the Coordination of the Search and Release of Prisoners of War, and the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War. They worked together, following the instructions of President Volodymyr Zelensky, to bring home what is most precious—our compatriots. Kyrylo Budanov, head of HUR MO, stated that the list for release includes soldiers who defended Ukraine from various units: National Guard, border guards, paratroopers, sailors, and infantrymen. They have long been in captivity, and now they are finally returning home—healthy, alive, and with deep gratitude for every effort made to secure their release. Prior to this momentous event, it was announced on Friday that Ukraine and Russia had completed the first phase of agreements on a large-scale exchange — 1,000 Ukrainians for 1,000 Russians. Under this agreement, 390 people were able to return to Ukraine. This development was a testament to the heightened diplomatic efforts and the internal will of leaders in both countries to find mutual understanding, given the importance of bringing our compatriots home. The prisoner exchange is not just a diplomatic operation; it is a symbol of the indomitable will of the Ukrainian people to secure the right to freedom for everyone torn away from their loved ones. The first videos that appeared online have already sparked waves of tears, words of support, and hope. Ukraine confidently marches toward victory, with warmth in its heart and faith in the future.