95 Ukrainians Released from Russian Captivity in Latest Prisoner Exchange

Ukraine secured the release of 95 individuals previously held captive by Russia in a prisoner exchange facilitated by the United Arab Emirates. The group included soldiers from the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the National Guard, and border guards.

88 privates and sergeants, along with 7 officers were released from captivity, according to the Coordination Staff. The group included:

• 49 soldiers from the Armed Forces, including volunteers of the “air bridge” who flew helicopters into Azovstal.

• 2 pilots

• 21 National Guardsmen

• 10 military sailors

• Seven individuals from the Ukraine’s Territorial Defense Forces

• 5 border guards

• 2 soldiers from the State Special Service of Transport

• 1 defender from a voluntary territorial community formation

23 of those released fought to defend Mariupol, with 13 having defended Azovstal. The remaining personnel fought in the Donetsk, Kherson, Kharkiv, Luhansk, and Zaporizhia regions.

Many of the released individuals require long-term treatment due to injuries and illnesses sustained during their captivity.

“We are pleased to welcome back these 95 Ukrainians,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated. “Their safe return is a result of dedicated efforts by our exchange team and the cooperation of the UAE.”

Zelenskyy then added: “Efforts to locate and secure the release of all Ukrainians still held captive remain a priority.”

Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights, Dmytro Lubinets, commented: “Congratulations to the Motherland! It’s impossible to hold back feelings!”

According to him, A total of 3,405 Ukrainians have been brought home since the Russian full-scale invasion to Ukraine began. This particular prisoner exchange marks the 54th such operation.

The focus of Ukraine remains on securing the release of all Ukrainians still being held.

Russia’s Defense Ministry confirmed the exchange, stating that 95 Russian captives were also released.

The previous significant prisoner exchange happened on May 31, when 75 individuals have been successfully returned to Ukraine.