KYIV – In a significant diplomatic development, Ukraine and Russia exchanged 205 prisoners of war each on May 6, with the United Arab Emirates acting as mediator in the latest of a series of wartime swaps. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the exchange on Telegram, stating, “Today, Ukraine has brought home 205 warriors,” while expressing gratitude to the UAE for facilitating the process.
Russia’s human rights commissioner, Tatiana Moskalkova, also acknowledged the coordinated effort, thanking the Russian defense ministry and other involved bodies. “For many families, today marks a joyful reunion—relief has replaced fear and uncertainty,” she said.
According to Ukraine’s coordination body for prisoner of war affairs, the returnees include 202 enlisted service members and three officers from the armed forces and national guard. This marks the fifth prisoner exchange in 2025 and the 64th since the conflict began over three years ago.