16:16 02-10-2025

Russia, Ukraine Exchange 185 Prisoners Under Istanbul Deal

Russia’s Defense Ministry confirmed a prisoner swap with Ukraine: 185 servicemen exchanged on each side, plus 20 Russian civilians, now receiving care in Belarus.

The Russian Ministry of Defense announced that a prisoner exchange had taken place as part of agreements reached between Moscow and Kiev on July 23 in Istanbul.

According to the ministry, 185 Russian servicemen were returned from territory under Ukrainian control in exchange for 185 Ukrainian prisoners of war. In addition, twenty Russian civilians were also released.

The ministry noted that the freed servicemen and civilians are currently in the Republic of Belarus, where they are receiving both medical treatment and psychological assistance.

All those released will be transferred to Russia to undergo further treatment and rehabilitation in medical facilities.