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Ukraine, Russia Activate Istanbul POW Swap to Free 1,200 Ukrainians

Technical consultations will now set procedures and timing before exchanges proceed.

Overview

  • National security chief Rustem Umierov said the sides agreed to move forward with the Istanbul framework after talks mediated by Türkiye and the United Arab Emirates.
  • The plan covers the release of 1,200 Ukrainians currently held in Russian custody under the Istanbul arrangements.
  • Officials signaled the goal of getting those returning home in time for New Year and Christmas with families.
  • Umierov said technical consultations will take place shortly to formalize procedural and organizational steps for the exchange.
  • Routine prisoner swaps continue in parallel, with the most recent release on Oct. 2 freeing 185 service members and 20 civilians.