Release of Defenders: Continuing Prisoner Exchanges Under New Agreements

Today, Ukraine witnessed a new stage of prisoner exchanges based on agreements reached in Istanbul. According to the decision of the Coordination Headquarters, a group of defenders categorized as “wounded and seriously ill” as well as those “under 25 years old” has been returned from Russian captivity.

The returned servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine include representatives from various branches including the Navy, Ground Forces, and the National Guard of Ukraine.

The youngest released defender is only 20 years old, while the oldest is 59. Among those freed are also officers.

Once again, the defenders of Mariupol, who had been held captive since 2022, have been released today.

The majority of the freed individuals had spent over 3 years in captivity, defending the country in various directions, including Donetsk, Kharkiv, Luhansk, and Kherson.

Also returning were illegally convicted Ukrainians and civilian individuals.

The released will undergo necessary medical examinations and receive support for rehabilitation, as well as all due payments for the duration of their captivity.

The exchange process continues in line with the “Istanbul agreements”. The exact number of released individuals will be announced after all stages of the exchange are completed.

Today’s exchange was conducted under the leadership of the head of the Coordination Headquarters, Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov.

The Coordination Headquarters continues its work, striving to bring everyone home!

Glory to Ukraine!