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Ukraine's First POW Exchange in Five Months: 157 Freed

2/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Ukraine conducted its first prisoner exchange with Russia in five months on February 5, 2026, freeing 157 citizens, including soldiers from Mariupol and a National Guard member captured at Chornobyl.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attributed the delays to Russian obstruction.
The exchange coincided with peace talks in Abu Dhabi, where U.S. officials facilitated discussions.
Over 2,500 Ukrainian POWs remain in Russian captivity.

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Story summary

Ukraine conducted its first prisoner exchange with Russia in five months on February 5, 2026, freeing 157 citizens, including soldiers from Mariupol and a National Guard member captured at Chornobyl.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attributed the delays to Russian obstruction.
The exchange coincided with peace talks in Abu Dhabi, where U.S. officials facilitated discussions.
Over 2,500 Ukrainian POWs remain in Russian captivity.