Erdoğan hails Russia-Ukraine prisoner swap as rare breakthrough
Photo: President of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (Getty Images)
President of Türkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, met with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. The two leaders discussed various issues, including the war in Ukraine, reports the Directorate of Communications under the President of the Republic of Türkiye.
During the meeting, Erdoğan said that Türkiye continues its efforts to end the Russian-Ukrainian war. He noted that issues such as the prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia, which was discussed during talks in Istanbul, are seen by Türkiye as an important step toward building trust. He added that the opportunity to end the war must not be missed.
What else did Türkiye and Spain discuss
During the talks, Erdoğan and Sánchez discussed bilateral relations between their countries. They also covered regional and global issues.
The Turkish President stated that efforts to increase trade volume between Türkiye and Spain are ongoing. Both countries intend to strengthen cooperation across multiple sectors, especially in the defense industry and transportation.
According to Erdoğan, Spain "has displayed a resolute and honorable stance against Israel's genocide in Gaza." He said Türkiye's top priority is delivering humanitarian aid to the enclave. Erdoğan also expressed confidence that "the oppression in Palestine would end as a result of joint efforts."
1,000-for-1,000 prisoner swap
On May 16, Ukraine and Russia held direct talks in Istanbul to end the war. One of the outcomes was an agreement on a prisoner exchange in the 1,000-for-1,000 format.
The process is taking place in several stages. On May 23, the first exchange took place. Each side handed over 390 people — 270 military personnel and 120 civilians.
Today marked the second day of the exchange. This time, 307 defenders of Ukraine returned home. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that 697 people have been returned over the past two days. Another stage of the exchange is expected tomorrow.
For more details about yesterday's and today's exchanges, read RBC-Ukraine's report.
