More than 300 Ukrainian defenders have returned from Russian captivity as part of a large-scale prisoner exchange operation
This was announced by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in his official Telegram channel, emphasizing the importance of completing the second day of the exchange under the 1000 for 1000 formula, which was agreed upon during his visit to Turkey. According to the head of state, over these two days, 697 Ukrainians, including military personnel, border service members, and National Guard soldiers, have managed to return home. Zelenskyy stressed that the process of returning prisoners is expected to continue tomorrow. "Currently, we have the results of the second day of the 1000 for 1000 exchange. We have already returned 697 people, and this gives us hope for the faster liberation of all our citizens. This is a great victory for our country, our heroes, and their families. I hope that tomorrow we will be able to return even more Ukrainians from captivity," he noted. At the same time, the Russian Ministry of Defense confirmed that as part of this exchange, they received 307 of their soldiers who had been held captive by Ukrainian forces. This news further confirms the intensified efforts of exchange processes and diplomatic efforts aimed at bringing Ukrainian citizens home. The prerequisites for this large-scale operation were based on the fact that yesterday Ukraine and Russia conducted the first phase of the agreement on exchanging 1000 for 1000 detained persons. During this first day, 390 individuals were returned — including 270 military personnel and 120 civilians. Among the prisoners were both defenders of Ukraine and civilians who found themselves in captivity due to military actions in the eastern part of the country. This agreement marked an important step towards chronological de-escalation of the conflict and the return of Ukrainians, whose numbers are increasing with each new operation. Ukrainian authorities emphasize that the prisoner release process remains a priority in diplomatic negotiations, and each liberated individual is a personal victory not only for their families but also for the entire Ukrainian nation. The prisoner exchange is a complex and multi-stage process that requires close cooperation between parties and high diplomatic skill. Authorities note that these operations are conducted in accordance with all necessary procedures and with the utmost attention to the safety and rights of those returning home. At the same time, each successful operation strengthens the faith of Ukrainians in the possibility of returning all prisoners, including those held by Russia, and provides a push for further diplomatic efforts in this direction. Overall, the situation with the exchange of detained persons continues to be closely monitored by Ukrainian and international diplomats. They are working to maximize the number of Ukrainians returning home each time and to do everything possible for the swift liberation of all who need it. Although this process remains uncertain in terms of timing, each such operation is a step toward restoring justice, returning peace, and uniting Ukrainian society.