Russia and Ukraine Exchange Over 100 POWs Amid Ongoing Conflict

Russia and Ukraine exchanged over 100 prisoners of war on Saturday. Ukraine freed 115 conscripts, including nearly 50 soldiers from Mariupol’s Azovstal steelworks. Russia’s captured soldiers were taken for medical treatment. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy praised the UAE's role in brokering the exchange. Ongoing drone and artillery attacks were reported.

Russia and Ukraine exchanged over 100 prisoners of war on Saturday, marking a significant development as Kyiv commemorated its third Independence Day since Moscow's full-scale invasion.

Among the 115 Ukrainian prisoners released, many were conscripts taken in the initial months of the invasion, including nearly 50 soldiers captured at Mariupol's Azovstal steelworks. The Russian Defence Ministry confirmed that 115 Russian soldiers, captured during a recent Ukrainian offensive in the Kursk region, will be transported to Russia for medical treatment.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy acknowledged the United Arab Emirates' crucial role in brokering this 55th exchange since the invasion began in February 2022, expressing his commitment to securing the return of all POWs. Concurrently, intensified drone and artillery attacks were reported on multiple fronts in Ukraine and Russia.

(With inputs from agencies.)