In a significant development in the ongoing conflict, Ukraine and Russia executed a new exchange of prisoners of war on 30 December 2024. This swap saw Ukraine bringing home 189 former captives, as announced by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Details of the Exchange
According to reports, the Russian Defence Ministry stated that a total of 150 Russian servicemen were also released. The discrepancy in numbers—189 Ukrainians versus 150 Russians—remains unexplained at this time. Those returning to Ukraine included soldiers, sergeants, officers, and two civilians captured in Mariupol.
Emotional Reunions
Footage from the exchange showed tearful reunions at night as families welcomed back their loved ones wrapped in the blue and yellow of the Ukrainian flag. Many of them were seen on video calls with their families, expressing disbelief and joy in being reunited after long periods of captivity.
- One returning soldier, Serhii, recounted that he last saw his son when he was just two years old — a heart-wrenching reminder of the toll the conflict has taken on families.
- Another soldier, Roman Borshch, described how difficult it is to adjust back to freedom, saying that he’s still holding his hands behind his back out of habit.
Acknowledgements
President Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to the United Arab Emirates and other partners who facilitated the swap. He noted, “The return of our people from Russian captivity is always very good news for each of us. And today is one of such days… We are working to free everyone from Russian captivity. This is our goal. We do not forget anyone.”
Context and Ongoing Efforts
This prisoner exchange marked the 59th such exchange since the beginning of the conflict in February 2022. As of now, a total of 3,956 Ukrainian detainees have been brought home through various deals, including those convicted under Russian laws.
With the war ongoing, these prisoner exchanges represent one of the few areas of co-operation between the two nations as they continue to navigate this complex and painful situation.