In the Chernihiv region of Ukraine, both Russia and Ukraine announced on Wednesday the exchange of 175 prisoners each, marking one of the most substantial swaps since the war’s onset three years ago. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of these exchanges, stating, “We are bringing back soldiers, sergeants, and officers—warriors who fought for our freedom.”
Zelenskyy highlighted the need for releasing all prisoners of war and captured civilians, noting it as a crucial move toward peace, which could help foster trust between the nations. This development coincides with talks about a potential ceasefire to temporarily halt the conflict.
The exchange, which took place near the northern border of the two nations, was met with emotional reunions. Families eagerly awaited their loved ones at a hospital in Ukraine’s Chernihiv region. Among them was Aliona Skuibida, a 28-year-old who campaigned extensively for the return of her fiancé, Andrii Orel, captured in 2022 during Mariupol’s intense battles. Originally planning to marry once Orel returned from combat, Skuibida was instead met with his capture. She noted the harsh experiences many soldiers endure in captivity, including signs of torture.
Celebrating Orel’s return with balloons and a cake, Skuibida was overjoyed, saying, “His birthday was just yesterday.” As buses arrived at the hospital, releasing weary soldiers, smiles visibly brightened their exhausted faces. Among them was 46-year-old Oleksandr Savov, who expressed disbelief at being home. His daughter, Anastasiia Savova, had maintained hope, writing letters that went unanswered. Savov shared his ordeal, describing the poor conditions he faced and the weight he lost during his imprisonment.
The joyful reunions were tinged with sorrow for some, as individuals moved through the crowd carrying photos of missing relatives, hoping for any news from the released POWs. Russia’s Defense Ministry mentioned releasing 22 severely wounded Ukrainian captives, describing it as a “goodwill gesture.” President Zelenskyy confirmed these soldiers’ return through separate negotiations, noting the original promise was to release 23 prisoners in discussions involving other nations.
The release included severely wounded soldiers and those wrongfully prosecuted by Russia, with Zelenskyy promising to bring all Ukrainian heroes home. Petro Yatsenko, leading Ukraine’s POW treatment coordination, underscored the planning required for exchanges, stating they involve months of preparation. The last exchange before this one occurred on February 5. Since Russia’s invasion, over 4,000 Ukrainian captives, including civilians and foreigners, have been freed.
The liberated servicemen had been captured defending various strongly contested regions. Upon their return, they are promised immediate medical and psychological care. Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude to the team managing these exchanges and to international partners, particularly the United Arab Emirates, for facilitating the process.
The United Nations reports that most Ukrainian prisoners of war face medical neglect, harsh mistreatment, and even torture during their captivity, with isolated abuse incidents documented during initial capture phases.
