In a significant development, Russia and Ukraine have completed the largest prisoner exchange since the war began three years ago, with each side releasing 1,000 prisoners. The swap, which was agreed upon in Istanbul earlier this month, was finalized on Sunday with the handover of the last 303 Ukrainian prisoners.
A Complex and Emotional Process
The three-day swap was a complex and emotional process, with both sides working to ensure the safe return of their citizens. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the completion of the exchange, saying on X on Sunday that “303 Ukrainian defenders are home”. The prisoner exchange, which included civilians, has been the only concrete step towards peace to emerge from the meeting between the two sides.
Drone and Missile Assault
Just hours before the last handover, Russia hit Ukraine with a massive drone and missile assault, which Ukrainian officials described as the largest aerial attack of the war. Officials said at least 12 people were killed and dozens others injured in the attack. There was no immediate comment from Moscow on the strikes.
Ongoing Conflict
The prisoner exchange is a rare piece of good news amidst the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Hundreds of thousands of soldiers on both sides, and tens of thousands of Ukrainian civilians, are believed to have been wounded or killed during the war. The conflict has caused widespread destruction and humanitarian suffering, with many calling for a ceasefire and a negotiated settlement.
Call for Ceasefire
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged his country’s Western partners to ramp up sanctions against Russia, while also reiterating the urgent need for a ceasefire. Posting on X on Sunday, President Zelenskyy promised to bring every Ukrainian home, and emphasized the importance of continuing to work towards peace.
Russia’s Peace Proposal
Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Friday that Moscow would present Ukraine with a draft peace agreement once the exchange was completed. However, the prospects for peace remain uncertain, and the conflict continues to rage on.
International Implications
The prisoner exchange is a significant step towards reducing the humanitarian toll of the conflict, but much more needs to be done to address the underlying issues driving the war. The international community continues to call for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, and for an end to the suffering of civilians caught in the crossfire.
What’s Next?
The completion of the prisoner exchange is a welcome development, but the conflict between Russia and Ukraine is far from over. The two sides will need to continue working towards a negotiated settlement, and the international community will need to remain engaged in supporting efforts to bring peace to the region.
Source: Africa Publicity
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