UAE mediates another prisoner swap between Russia, Ukraine

Russia and Ukraine have completed another large prisoner exchange following negotiations brokered by the UAE.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the success of the latest mediation efforts reflects the UAE's position as a reliable international partner.

It also expressed its appreciation to the Ukrainian and Russian governments for their cooperation and positive response that contributed to the success of the prisoner exchange process.

The two countries have carried out periodic prisoner swaps via intermediaries since the war began nearly two years ago.

The Russian Defence Ministry said each side had received 195 soldiers, while Ukraine said it had got 207 people back.

The UAE's mediation in early January 2024 led to the release of hundreds of Russian and Ukrainian captives, while a previous mediation effort in December 2022 led to the exchange of two prisoners between the United States and Russia.