Russia and Ukraine swap 205 prisoners of war each

Abu Dhabi mediation sees 410 captives freed in latest Russia-Ukraine swap

The first stage of the 1,000-for-1,000 prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia took place on Family Day, with 205 Ukrainian defenders brought back home.

Video released by the Ukrainian presidential office showed returning soldiers crying, embracing fellow servicemen and calling relatives shortly after crossing back into Ukrainian-controlled territory.

The released Russian soldiers are currently in Belarus, where they are receiving medical and psychological assistance before being transferred to Russia for further treatment and rehabilitation.