UAE brokers new round of Russia-Ukraine prisoner exchange

The UAE has announced the success of new mediation efforts leading to another exchange of captives between Russia and Ukraine.

The latest exchange involved 314 captives — 157 from each side — bringing the total number of people released through UAE‑mediated efforts to 4,995.

The breakthrough comes as the UAE hosts the second round of trilateral talks between Russia, Ukraine and the United States in Abu Dhabi, underlining the country’s continued commitment to dialogue, and the international community’s confidence in the UAE’s role as a trusted mediator.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs thanked both countries for their cooperation, noting that the exchange reflects their confidence in the UAE’s mediation role in efforts to resolve the crisis.

The Ministry said the success of this eighteenth mediation highlights the UAE’s strong ties with both Russia and Ukraine, and reaffirmed commitment to supporting all initiatives aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution to the conflict and easing its humanitarian impact.