Abu Dhabi, UAE – In a new diplomatic achievement reflecting the success of Emirati mediation efforts, the Russian Ministry of Defense announced on Saturday the completion of a large-scale prisoner exchange with Ukraine. The operation resulted in the return of 175 Russian soldiers in exchange for the release of 175 Ukrainian prisoners. This step aims to alleviate the humanitarian suffering caused by the ongoing conflict.
Details of the exchange deal and mediation
The Russian Ministry of Defense explained in an official statement on Telegram that the exchange, which took place on April 11, was successfully completed thanks to “humanitarian mediation” provided by the United Arab Emirates.
The statement emphasized that the deal also included an important civilian dimension. Seven Russian citizens from the Kursk region, who had been illegally detained by the Kyiv regime, were released and are scheduled to return home immediately.
Medical care and the next destination
The freed Russian soldiers are currently in Belarus, where they are undergoing thorough medical examinations and receiving necessary psychological support following their captivity. The statement indicated that they will later be transferred to Russia to complete their treatment and rehabilitation programs at advanced medical facilities of the Ministry of Defense.
Momentum of regional mediations
This operation is an extension of a series of diplomatic successes led by regional powers. Last March, Moscow and Kyiv announced the exchange of 1,000 prisoners (500 from each side) through joint Emirati-American mediation.
Saudi Arabia has also played a prominent role in previous exchanges involving foreign fighters and prisoners of war. This reinforces the role of Arab capitals as a reliable platform for humanitarian solutions between conflicting parties.
This deal offers a glimmer of hope for the continuation of open diplomatic channels between Moscow and Kyiv, despite the escalation on the ground. It underscores that the humanitarian file remains the area with the greatest potential for achieving tangible breakthroughs under the umbrella of effective international mediation.
