Ukraine and Russia Exchange Hundreds of POWs as U.S. Announces $6 Billion Aid Package

The prisoner swap, facilitated by the UAE, coincides with President Biden's final push to bolster Ukraine's defenses before his term ends.

Ukraine and Russia exchanged prisoners of war, with 189 Ukrainians and 150 Russians returning home in a swap brokered by the United Arab Emirates.
President Zelensky highlighted the release of defenders from key battles, including Azovstal and Mariupol, and expressed gratitude for international mediation efforts.
The Biden administration announced $5.9 billion in additional aid to Ukraine, including $2.5 billion in military support and $3.4 billion in economic assistance, as part of a final push before President-elect Trump takes office.
Fighting on the front lines intensified, with heavy clashes reported in the Pokrovsk area and increased drone attacks targeting infrastructure in both Ukraine and Russia.
Concerns over potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy under the incoming administration have raised questions about future military and economic support for Ukraine.