Story perspectives

Russia, Ukraine Swap 160 Prisoners in Belarus, UAE Mediates

6/27/2026

Summary

UAE Mediates Exchange

On June 26, 2026, Russia and Ukraine each released 160 prisoners in Belarus.
The United Arab Emirates mediated the exchange.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the freed Ukrainians, held since 2022, include Armed Forces, Special Transport Service, National Guard and Border Guard members who fought in Mariupol and Azovstal.
Earlier, the sides exchanged bodies, with Ukraine receiving 522 and Russia receiving 33.

Summary

Ukraine Launches Drones

Ukraine began a 40-day operation, launching drone attacks on Moscow and Crimea as the June 26 swap occurred.
The United Arab Emirates arranged a 205-person swap in May and a 314-person swap in February, showing involvement.
Kyiv and Moscow say prisoner exchanges are the only cooperation since the 2022 invasion, while peace talks stay stalled.
President Zelensky posted photos of freed soldiers waving blue-and-yellow flags and embracing, providing a morale lift.

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UAE Mediates Exchange

On June 26, 2026, Russia and Ukraine each released 160 prisoners in Belarus.
The United Arab Emirates mediated the exchange.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the freed Ukrainians, held since 2022, include Armed Forces, Special Transport Service, National Guard and Border Guard members who fought in Mariupol and Azovstal.
Earlier, the sides exchanged bodies, with Ukraine receiving 522 and Russia receiving 33.

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