Russia and Ukraine have started their most extensive prisoner exchange since the onset of the conflict, each releasing 1,000 detainees.
This significant development follows the first direct peace talks between the two nations in over three years, held in Istanbul on May 16, and was mediated by Turkey.
While President Trump announced the completion of the swap, Ukrainian officials have indicated that the process is still underway.
The exchange includes both military personnel and civilians, with transfers occurring at multiple locations, including near the Belarusian border.
Despite this progress, broader peace negotiations remain stalled.
Ukraine has proposed a 30-day ceasefire, which Russia has rejected, insisting on conditions such as recognition of its control over certain territories and Ukraine’s neutrality regarding NATO.
The prisoner swap is viewed as a confidence-building measure, but both sides acknowledge that significant challenges persist in achieving a comprehensive peace agreement.
