Returned 205 Russian soldiers from Ukrainian imprisonment
In an expected move, Russia and Ukraine completed a round of prisoner exchange on May 6, 2025. Mediated by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), this exchange saw the swap of 205 prisoners of war from each side. This marks the fifth swap of the year, with the UAE playing a pivotal role.
The Handoff and Aftermath
The exchange was part of an ongoing diplomatic mission by the UAE, who have facilitated numerous prisoner swaps since the conflict commenced. With over 3,000 prisoners exchanged, the UAE's impartiality and credibility have been crucial in forging these agreements [2][3].
The returned Russian soldiers are undergoing essential psychological and medical evaluations in Belarus before proceeding to Russia for comprehensible rehabilitation [1][5]. The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, acknowledged the returned Ukrainian personnel, stating the group consisted of soldiers from various branches of the military, including Mariupol defenders, who had been detained across Russia [1].
Medical Treatment Next Steps
Following their return, both Russian and Ukrainian servicemen will receive thorough medical treatment to address any physical or psychological effects of captivity [5]. Russian servicemen will continue their rehabilitation in Russia following initial assessments in Belarus [5].
A Continuing Effort for Peace
This exchange follows another major one on April 19, 2025, where 246 prisoners from each side were released [5]. The UAE's persistent involvement in these exchanges demonstrates its growing influence in global mediation and its contribution to easing tensions between Russia and Ukraine. The future might see additional swaps and broader talks between the warring nations [3].
This report brought to you by RIA "Novy Day," © 2025
- The UAE, acting as a mediator, facilitated the return of 205 servicemen from each side in the latest prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine, which took place on May 6, 2025.
- Upon their return, Ukrainian servicemen, including Mariupol defenders, were acknowledged by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and will undergo comprehensive medical treatment to address any physical or psychological effects of captivity.
- Russian servicemen, after undergoing initial psychological and medical evaluations in Belarus, will continue their rehabilitation in Russia following their return.
- The UAE's persistent involvement in prisoner swaps demonstrates its growing role in global mediation and its efforts to contribute to peace and ease tensions between Russia and Ukraine, as evidenced by an additional major exchange that occurred on April 19, 2025.
