103 Ukrainian warriors freed from russian captivity
Another prisoner exchange took place today, August 19, 2026. As a result of the exchange, 103 Ukrainian warriors were freed from russian captivity.
Who returned from russian captivity
As a result of the negotiation process, service members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine are returning home, including members of the Navy and the Territorial Defence Forces.
The exchange also resulted in the release of personnel from the National Guard of Ukraine and the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine.
The warriors defended Ukraine in the Luhansk, Donetsk, Kharkiv, Kherson, Dnipropetrovsk, and Sumy sectors. Most of those freed have injuries and serious illnesses.
Among those released are soldiers, sergeants, and officers
In addition to soldiers and sergeants, several officers were also freed. The youngest of the freed defenders was born in 2000, while the oldest is 59.
All those freed will undergo medical examinations and receive assistance with physical and psychological rehabilitation, along with state-provided payments. The warriors will also receive support for reintegration into society after prolonged isolation.
Efforts to bring Ukrainians home continue
Ukraine expresses its gratitude to the United States of America and the United Arab Emirates for their assistance in facilitating the exchange.
The Ministry of Defence thanks all institutions and organizations involved for their coordinated efforts to secure the release of our citizens. We continue our daily efforts to secure the release of every Ukrainian held captive.
As previously reported, the previous exchange took place on June 26, 2026, when 160 Ukrainian warriors were brought home. Most of them are defenders of Mariupol.
Support, medical care, and documents: A step-by-step guide for defenders after their return from captivity