Ukraine and Russia prepare for largest prisoner exchange of the war
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said more than 1,000 people from each side are expected to be released as US diplomatic efforts increase.
Ukraine is preparing for a major prisoner exchange with Russia that could involve more than 1,000 people from each side, according to the Times of India.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Friday that Kyiv is acting on assurances from American partners that this will be the largest exchange since the conflict began.
Zelenskyy stated on X that Ukrainian intelligence, special services, and the coordination headquarters are working to facilitate the process. He noted that the exchange is vital for thousands of Ukrainian families awaiting the return of relatives.
The proposed swap follows diplomatic efforts led by the United States. US President Donald Trump's special envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, have met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Zelenskyy to advance negotiations.
The envoys met Putin in Moscow and later held discussions with Zelenskyy in Ireland on November 13. These talks focused on ending the conflict, establishing security guarantees, and humanitarian cooperation.
Zelenskyy also mentioned a 645 million euro defence assistance package from Denmark, which includes energy assistance and ammunition for F-16 fighter jets. He said he expects a report on the prisoner exchange preparations shortly.
