Second Unprecedented Prisoner Exchange Between Russia and Ukraine Completed

Kokcha News Agency – Vladimir Medinsky, the Russian President’s aide and head of the Russian negotiation team, has confirmed the completion of the second unprecedented prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine. This exchange is part of the ongoing efforts to address humanitarian issues and reduce tensions between the two nations.

Medinsky stated that the third round of negotiations has concluded, with the Russian Federation confirming that all agreements regarding humanitarian corridors from previous rounds have been finalized. To save time and resources, Russia proposed the formation of three working groups that would operate online. Ukraine has agreed to review Russia’s proposal regarding these working groups.

Medinsky emphasized that before a potential meeting between the leaders of Russia and Ukraine, an agreement on a settlement must first be discussed. Russia has informed Ukraine that preparations for a meeting between Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky must be well-planned. Both sides will continue to engage in discussions regarding the settlement notes, though their positions currently remain far apart.

Key Points from Medinsky’s Statements:

1. Prisoner Exchange:
   • Russia and Ukraine are currently completing the exchange of 250 prisoners of war from each side.
   • Russia has already returned the bodies of over 7,000 Ukrainian soldiers to Ukraine, while receiving a small number of its own soldiers.
   • Approximately 1,200 individuals from both sides will be exchanged.
2. Humanitarian Corridors and Civilian Issues:
   • The issue of returning civilians displaced by military actions was discussed with Ukraine.
   • Russia noted that Article 101 of the agreement has not been fully implemented, as not all residents of the Kursk region have returned to their homes.
   • Ukraine is currently detaining around 30 civilians from the Kursk region.
   • Russia is prepared to exchange Ukrainian soldiers and other individuals for residents of the Kursk region.
3. Medical Teams and Humanitarian Pauses:
   • In the gray zone, medical teams are at significant risk due to the threat of drone attacks.
   • Russia proposed a return to short-term humanitarian pauses on the frontlines to ensure the safety of medical personnel and civilians.

The completion of the second prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine marks a significant step in ongoing negotiations. While both sides continue to discuss humanitarian issues and potential settlements, their positions remain far apart. Russia’s proposals for working groups and humanitarian pauses aim to reduce tensions and protect civilians and medical personnel in conflict zones.

For more updates on the Russia-Ukraine negotiations, stay tuned to Kokcha News Agency.

Kokcha News Agency
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