303 Russian Soldiers Return Home in Major POW Exchange with Ukraine
Landmark 1,000-for-1,000 swap completed as part of Istanbul negotiations; Moscow hails move as proof of its commitment to diplomacy
Russia, PUREWILAYAH.COM - A military aircraft carrying 303 Russian soldiers released from Ukrainian captivity has landed safely near Moscow, according to a report by Zvezda TV. The soldiers, who were freed as part of a large-scale prisoner swap agreement, are scheduled to receive medical treatment and rehabilitation at healthcare facilities under the Russian Ministry of Defense.
The prisoner exchange, carried out on May 25, marked the final phase of a 1,000-for-1,000 swap agreement between Russia and Ukraine. The deal was reached during talks held in Istanbul on May 16, facilitated with the goal of easing tensions and addressing humanitarian concerns.
Under the agreement, 303 Russian POWs were returned to Russian territory, while 303 Ukrainian troops were simultaneously repatriated to Ukraine.
Moscow: Exchange Counters Western Accusations
Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova emphasized that the successful exchange illustrates Russia's willingness to engage in constructive diplomacy.
“This is an effective, practical example of how our country behaves on the world stage, including in the context of the Ukrainian crisis,” Zakharova said in an interview with Zvezda TV.
“It completely dismantles the narrative pushed by the liberal-Western bloc that Russia is unwilling to negotiate.”
Zakharova argued that the initiative came from Moscow, and that it disproves recent criticisms by Western leaders including French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Civilians Among Returnees
In addition to the 303 soldiers, the Russian Defense Ministry confirmed that the exchange included 120 civilians detained by Ukraine, including non-combatants from the Kursk Region of Russia. The deal also secured the return of 270 additional Russian servicemen from Ukrainian-controlled areas. (PW)
Source: TASS