Ukraine successfully returned 157 people from Russian captivity during the first prisoner exchange of 2026. The group includes 150 military personnel and seven civilians who regained their freedom on January 5. This result was made possible thanks to negotiations between Ukraine and Russia held in Abu Dhabi.
The Coordinating Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War reported the successful completion of the 71st exchange. The returnees represent various branches, including the Navy, National Guard, and Territorial Defense. More than half of the released soldiers participated in the defense of Mariupol. One National Guard member had been in captivity since the initial occupation of the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant. Statistics show that 139 of the returned citizens had been held by Russia since 2022.
Diplomatic efforts and statistics
U.S. Special Envoy Steven Witkoff stated that the deal resulted from the second round of peace talks involving the U.S., Ukraine, and Russia. Both sides exchanged 157 prisoners each, marking the first large-scale swap in five months. The youngest released defender is 23 years old. A Russian occupation court had previously sentenced this young Mariupol defender to life imprisonment. The oldest returning hero is 63 years old.
“Today’s exchange took place after a long pause, and it is very important that it was implemented. I thank everyone who works for the sake of exchanges and everyone on the front line who replenishes the exchange fund. Without the determination of our warriors, such exchanges would be impossible,” stated Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
All released individuals will now receive immediate medical examinations and necessary rehabilitation services. International partners remain cautious, as recent Russian attacks raise doubts about the Kremlin’s genuine commitment to peace.
Earlier, The Ukrainian Review reported that President Zelenskyy announced updated figures on the losses of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and commented on possible conditions for ending the war.
