With Emirati Mediation, a prisoner swap agreement was reached between (Russia and Ukraine).

 

The success of the prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine, mediated by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is attributed to Abu Dhabi's robust diplomatic ties with both Moscow and Kiev, according to a statement from the UAE Foreign Ministry.

The statement, published on the ministry's website, highlighted the positive outcome as a testament to the strong and friendly relations between the UAE and both the Russian Federation and the Republic of Ukraine. It underscored the sustained efforts at the highest levels, resulting in one of the most significant exchanges of captives since the war's inception.

Expressing gratitude, the UAE extended thanks to the Russian and Ukrainian governments for their cooperation and responsiveness to the mediation efforts, acknowledging the challenges presented by the ongoing conflict.

The UAE reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing efforts for a peaceful resolution to the Ukrainian conflict. Additionally, it called for de-escalation and advocated support for initiatives addressing the humanitarian repercussions of the crisis.

Reports from Margarita Simonyan indicated that 248 Russian and 173 Ukrainian servicemen were released in the prisoner swap. Notably, 75 Russian servicemen were exchanged for five militants associated with the nationalist regiment Azov. The Defense Ministry acknowledged the challenging negotiations and credited the success to the UAE's mediation efforts, facilitating the return of Russian soldiers from Kiev-controlled territory.