Tensions Escalate in Ukraine-Russia Prisoner Swap Dispute

Ukraine requests Russia to provide a list of prisoners for a swap, amid accusations from both sides of sabotage. Ukrainian Commissioner Dmytro Lubinets declared readiness for exchange, while Russia accuses Ukraine of delaying the process. Exchanges have been ongoing since the 2022 invasion.

The prisoner exchange process between Ukraine and Russia has hit a snag, with both sides levelling accusations of sabotage. Ukrainian Human Rights Commissioner Dmytro Lubinets made a public call for a list of Ukrainian prisoners from Russia, as tensions rise in the ongoing negotiations.

Historically, these exchanges have been frequent, occurring since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The most recent swap happened in mid-October, with 95 prisoners returned to each country. However, Russian claims suggest a slowdown, with Ukraine allegedly refusing to reclaim citizens.

Moscow's Human Rights Commissioner, Tatyana Moskalkova, criticized Ukraine for politicizing the issue and emphasized the need for constructive dialogue. Both nations continue to wrestle over the fate of hundreds of individuals detained amid the conflict.

(With inputs from agencies.)