Major Prisoner Exchange Between Russia and Ukraine Announced

A significant prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine is currently in progress, according to a senior Ukrainian official on Friday. Despite this, President Donald Trump stated earlier that the exchange had been completed.

This announcement follows the first in-person talks between Russian and Ukrainian officials held in Turkey since the war began, which took place last Friday. During these discussions, an agreement was reached to release around 1,000 prisoners of war.

In a statement on Truth Society, Trump remarked, “The exchange of major prisoners between Russia and Ukraine has just been completed and will come into effect soon. Congratulations to both parties on this negotiation. Could this lead to something big?”

Ukrainian President Voldiemi Zelenki mentioned on Thursday, “I held a meeting on preparations for the exchange,” adding that the contract for freeing the prisoners was a significant outcome of the Turkey talks.

After a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday, Trump expressed confidence, saying, “I think it worked very well.” He noted that “Russia and Ukraine will soon begin negotiations for a ceasefire and, more importantly, for the end of the war.” Additionally, Trump described the tone of the conversation as “amazing,” which is… well, interesting, isn’t it?

In a statement following their conversation, Putin indicated that a ceasefire might be feasible, but emphasized that both sides needed to find a suitable compromise. Yet, the Kremlin clarified later that there were no plans for direct peace talks.

Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov also commented that “there is no specific agreement on the next meeting,” highlighting the uncertain nature of the situation.