Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expects several phases of prisoner exchanges with Russia to be carried out, in line with agreements reached during the second meeting in Istanbul. The Ukrainian head of state announced this on Telegram, according to Ukrinform.
Intensified Efforts for Prisoner Release
“I have heard reports on the phases of prisoner exchanges that have been completed and those that are being prepared,” Zelensky stated. “We expect several phases of exchanges to be carried out in accordance with the agreements reached at the second meeting in Istanbul, and we are continuing our other activities to ensure the liberation of our people, both military and civilian.”
He added that this work is coordinated by the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, with all necessary forces and institutions involved. Zelensky noted that during the spring and summer of this year, it was possible to significantly intensify the exchanges.
Rehabilitation and Investigation of War Crimes
Among those released from captivity are individuals who were previously classified as missing, as well as those held in Russian prisons and camps since the beginning of the full-scale war. “That’s why our team is checking information on every surname. We are looking for all our people,” Zelensky said.
He also reported on measures for the rehabilitation of those returned from captivity, as well as ongoing work to investigate crimes against Ukrainian prisoners. Zelensky emphasized the need to “restore justice, and work is being done on this at all levels – legal, political, and special operations.”
The President also thanked Ukrainian intelligence, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Office of the President’s team, the Security Service of Ukraine, the human rights ombudsman, and everyone involved in the Coordinating Headquarters team.
