First stage of the “1,000-for-1,000” exchange: 205 Ukrainian defenders returned from russian captivity

Today, the first stage of the “1,000-for-1,000” exchange was carried out in line with agreements reached through U.S. mediation. The first group of 205 Ukrainian defenders has returned from russian captivity.

Who returned home from russian captivity

Among those released are service members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, including personnel from the:

• Navy;
• Ground Forces;
• Air Assault Forces;
• Territorial Defence Forces;
• Air Force.

Also returning home were personnel of the National Guard of Ukraine and the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine.

In addition to privates and sergeants, the exchange also secured the return of more than 50 officers.

 

Most of those released had been held in captivity for nearly four years

Almost all service members released today had been held in captivity for four years. Most of them were captured during the defense of Mariupol. The length of time spent in captivity is the key principle guiding the formation of the “1,000-for-1,000” exchange lists.

Among those released is also a National Guard service member who was captured at the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant.

The youngest defender released is 21 years old, while the oldest is 62.

Overall, those returning home fought on the Donetsk, Luhansk, Kharkiv, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Sumy, and Kyiv sectors of the front line.

 

Efforts continue regarding the next stages of the exchange

Ukraine expresses its gratitude to the United States of America and the United Arab Emirates for their important mediation and support in the exchange process.

Ukraine also thanks all relevant agencies and organizations for their assistance in carrying out this exchange.

Efforts are ongoing regarding the next stages of the “1,000-for-1,000” exchange and the implementation of other prior agreements. Work continues to secure the return of all Ukrainians from russian captivity.