Initiation of New Stage in Prisoner Exchange

Today marks the beginning of a new stage in the exchange of soldiers according to agreements reached in Istanbul.

The first group of released soldiers, aged under 25, is returning home.

This was made possible through the efforts of the President of Ukraine, the negotiating team, and the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War.

Among those returning are representatives from the Naval Forces, Ground Forces, Territorial Defense Forces, Air Forces, Assault Troops, Border Service, National Guard, and the State Special Transport Service. All released personnel are from the ranks of privates and sergeants.

Among the released defenders are those who defended Mariupol and spent over 3 years in captivity.

This exchange is just the beginning of a large-scale process that will continue according to the agreements reached.

The exchange pertains to specific categories of prisoners of war, particularly those under 25, severely wounded, and critically ill captives.

Work is also ongoing on the repatriation of the bodies of deceased Ukrainian soldiers who defended their homeland.

Returned soldiers will be provided with all necessary support. Their documents will be restored, they will receive due monetary compensation for the time spent in captivity, as well as a one-time aid. They will also undergo a course of medical rehabilitation.

The 66th prisoner exchange is ongoing. For security reasons, final figures on the released will be announced after the completion of the exchange process.

Ukraine is steadily working towards implementing the "all for all" exchange formula across all categories.