Lubinets discusses stepping up prisoner exchanges with Russia

This was reported by Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets.

According to him, Russia has determined the whereabouts of 79 missing Ukrainian servicemen.

The parties discussed the return of two categories of Ukrainian citizens—prisoners of war and civilians—from both the occupied territories and Russian territory.

An increase in exchange processes and humanitarian evacuations was noted: eight elderly people were returned to territory controlled by Ukraine, and eight people left for Russia.

The ombudsmen also exchanged letters from relatives addressed to prisoners of war. They separately raised the issue of continuous monitoring of the conditions of detention for prisoners, particularly ensuring freedom of religion and the presence of clergy.

Today, a 103-for-103 exchange took place. For the first time in a long while, 31 wounded prisoners were also exchanged. The Belarusian side provided assistance in organizing the exchange and the meeting.

In addition, an agreement has been reached on reciprocal visits by ombudsmen to the prisoners.

As a reminder, Ukraine has repatriated another 103 defenders from Russian captivity. Among those released are servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, including members of the Territorial Defense Forces and the Navy, the National Guard, and the State Border Guard Service.