First Prisoner Exchange Between Russia and Ukraine: Under-25 Soldiers Are Free!

A significant prisoner exchange took place between Russia and Ukraine on June 9, 2025, in the ongoing war. This exchange was particularly notable as it was the first phase specifically involving war prisoners under the age of 25.

Details

• Turkey’s Mediation: This prisoner exchange was realized following agreements reached through negotiations hosted by Turkey in Istanbul. Turkey played a significant role in this process, which is seen as a critical step from both a humanitarian and diplomatic perspective.
• Under-25 Prisoners: The primary focus of the exchange was young soldiers under the age of 25. This detail is important as it highlights the humanitarian aspect of the initiative.
• Russian Ministry of Defense Statement: The Russian Ministry of Defense announced that the first Russian soldiers under the age of 25 were returned from Ukraine as per the agreements. It was stated that the released Russian soldiers were in Belarusian territory and were receiving necessary medical and psychological support.
• Confirmation from Ukraine: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also confirmed that the prisoner exchange had begun, stating that the process would continue in several phases in the coming days. Zelenskyy emphasized that there were injured individuals among them and that they were working to get every prisoner back.
• Number of Soldiers: Neither side provided specific information on the exact number of soldiers exchanged. However, it was indicated that roughly the same number of soldiers were released by both sides.
• Previous Agreement: The groundwork for this exchange was laid during negotiations held in Istanbul on June 2. In those discussions, an agreement was reached regarding the handover of frozen bodies of approximately 6,000 Ukrainian soldiers, as well as the exchange of severely wounded and sick soldiers, and prisoners of war under the age of 25.

This prisoner exchange is seen as an important humanitarian step in the Russia-Ukraine war, and it is anticipated that similar exchanges may continue in the future.