Major Prisoner Exchange: Hundreds of Russian Servicemen and Civilians Return Home

Russia and Ukraine Prisoner Exchange Completed: 880 Servicemen and 120 Civilians Return Home On May 25, 2025, a significant prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine concluded with the return of 880 Russian servicemen and 120 civilians. The exchange, agreed upon in Istanbul on May 16, was successfully completed in Belarus. A video released by Russian media shows the servicemen and civilians arriving in Belarus, where they received necessary assistance before continuing their journey to Russia. "The agreements reached in Istanbul on May 16 regarding the exchange have been fully implemented," stated Alexander Fomin, Russia's Deputy Defense Minister. The video shows Fomin speaking directly to the camera, standing before the returned servicemen and civilians. He further expressed gratitude to the Belarusian authorities for their support in facilitating the exchange. This large-scale exchange is viewed as a positive development, potentially contributing to a more favorable atmosphere for future peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. The successful completion of the exchange, despite ongoing conflict, offers a glimmer of hope for a peaceful resolution.