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Ukraine and Russia Exchange 350 Prisoners Amid Ceasefire

4/12/2026

22 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

On April 11, 2026, Ukraine and Russia exchanged 175 prisoners of war each, with the United Arab Emirates facilitating the swap.
The exchange took place under a 32-hour ceasefire for Orthodox Easter starting at 4 p.m. on Saturday.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Ukraine will not respond if Russian strikes cease.
He expressed hope the pause could advance peace talks stalled over territorial disputes.

History

Historical Context

The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, intensified by Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014, has led to multiple prisoner exchanges, including a significant one in 2016 involving 140 individuals from each side. In 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy continued these efforts, seeking diplomatic resolutions to territorial disputes, with the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) monitoring the exchanges.

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Story summary

On April 11, 2026, Ukraine and Russia exchanged 175 prisoners of war each, with the United Arab Emirates facilitating the swap.
The exchange took place under a 32-hour ceasefire for Orthodox Easter starting at 4 p.m. on Saturday.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Ukraine will not respond if Russian strikes cease.
He expressed hope the pause could advance peace talks stalled over territorial disputes.

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