https://arab.news/r96rf
- Latest release is 12th captive swap mediated by Abu Dhabi since 2024
- Emirati efforts have led to the freeing of 2,883 Ukrainian and Russian prisoners
LONDON: UAE mediation efforts resulted in a new exchange of 300 prisoners of war between Ukraine and Russia this week.
On Wednesday, 150 Ukrainians and 150 Russians were exchanged between Moscow and Kyiv amid the ongoing conflict that erupted in February 2022.
Emirati mediation efforts so far have led to the release of 2,883 Ukrainian and Russian prisoners of war, the Emirates News Agency reported.
This is the 12th successful mediation led by Abu Dhabi since 2024.
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs commended Russia and Ukraine for their collaboration with the mediation efforts and their role in the exchange, the WAM added.
The ministry said that Abu Dhabi is committed to finding a peaceful solution to the conflict in Ukraine and appreciates both countries’ faith in the UAE as a trusted mediator.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky posted photos of the prisoners on X, adding that the 150 soldiers were captured by Russian troops in Mariupol and the Zaporizhzhia region.
Some served in air and ground forces, or the national guard, and have been in captivity for over two years, he added.
“I am grateful to everyone working to bring our people back. I thank our partners, in particular the UAE, and all those who stand with us on this path. We are working to bring everyone back,” Zelensky wrote on his X official account.