Russia & Ukraine Swap 84 POWs Each Ahead of Trump-Putin Summit
In a significant development, Russia and Ukraine have swapped 84 prisoners of war (POWs) from each side, as announced by the Russian Defence Ministry on August 14. This move comes ahead of the highly anticipated summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump in Alaska, USA.
According to reports, the exchange was facilitated by the United Arab Emirates. The freed Ukrainians, as stated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, include both soldiers and civilians, some of whom have been held captive since 2014.
This development marks a crucial step towards easing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, which have been embroiled in a prolonged conflict since 2014. The exchange is seen as a positive sign, as it demonstrates the willingness of both sides to engage in dialogue and work towards a peaceful resolution.
The Russian Defence Ministry stated that the exchange was carried out in accordance with the principles of international humanitarian law, ensuring the safe passage of the prisoners to their respective countries. The ministry also emphasized that the swap was a result of the efforts of the United Arab Emirates, which played a crucial role in mediating the exchange.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy hailed the exchange as a significant achievement, stating that it marked a major step towards the release of Ukrainian citizens held captive in Russia. Zelenskyy emphasized that the freed individuals included soldiers and civilians who had been held prisoner for several years, some since the conflict began in 2014.
The timing of the exchange is significant, as it comes ahead of the summit between Putin and Trump in Alaska. The meeting is expected to focus on a range of issues, including trade, security, and arms control. The exchange of POWs is seen as a positive sign, as it could help to ease tensions between the two nations and pave the way for further dialogue.
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine began in 2014, following the annexation of Crimea by Russia. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of thousands of people and has displaced millions. The situation remains volatile, with both sides accusing each other of violating the ceasefire agreement.
The exchange of POWs is a significant development, as it marks a rare instance of cooperation between Russia and Ukraine. The move is seen as a step towards reducing tensions and promoting dialogue between the two nations.
In a statement, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence welcomed the exchange, stating that it demonstrated the commitment of both sides to upholding international humanitarian law. The ministry emphasized that the freed Ukrainians would be reunited with their families and would receive necessary assistance to reintegrate into society.
The Russian Defence Ministry also welcomed the exchange, stating that it marked a crucial step towards reducing tensions between the two nations. The ministry emphasized that the swap was a result of the efforts of the United Arab Emirates and that it demonstrated the commitment of both sides to finding peaceful solutions.
The exchange of POWs is a significant development, as it marks a major step towards reducing tensions between Russia and Ukraine. The move is seen as a positive sign, as it demonstrates the willingness of both sides to engage in dialogue and work towards a peaceful resolution.
As the summit between Putin and Trump approaches, the exchange of POWs is seen as a crucial step towards easing tensions between the two nations. The move is expected to pave the way for further dialogue and cooperation between Russia and Ukraine.
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