Russia has repatriated 270 prisoners of war and 120 civilians from Ukrainian detention, while transferring an equal number to Ukraine, according to statements from both the Russian Defense Ministry and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The Russian ministry explained this prisoner swap falls under a prearranged three-day agreement following the "1000 for 1000" exchange formula established during negotiations in Istanbul.
Currently, the freed Russian military personnel and civilians are receiving psychological and medical support in Belarus before being transported back to Russia for further treatment and recovery.
Zelenskyy affirmed Ukraine's commitment to ongoing diplomatic efforts to facilitate similar exchanges in the future.
The prisoner exchange agreement was reached during Istanbul talks on May 16, with media reports indicating the process would commence on May 23 and continue for three days.