Ukrainian officials discuss details of upcoming prisoner swap with Russia

"Today, under the leadership of Kyrylo Budanov, Head of the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War, a working meeting of the Headquarters Council was held to implement the agreements reached during the negotiations in Istanbul," said Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov.

The meeting focused on the start of implementing the all for all exchange formula for specific categories of military personnel. Concrete steps were outlined to secure the return of seriously ill and severely wounded soldiers, as well as young servicemembers under the age of 25 currently held in enemy captivity.

Special attention was given to the issue of repatriating the bodies of fallen soldiers currently located in temporarily occupied territories or in Russia.

According to the minister, all involved agencies have been given clear instructions.

"Communication with the Russian side has been established regarding the stages of implementing the agreements. Fulfilling these commitments is a key test of the sincerity of intentions to continue negotiations and move closer to a ceasefire. We are working to ensure that every Ukrainian taken captive returns home. This is a matter of national responsibility and dignity," Umerov said.

Prisoner exchange

During the second round of negotiations in Istanbul on June 2, Ukraine and Russia agreed on a new prisoner exchange.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the plan includes exchanging 1,000-for-1,000, with an additional 200-for-200. According to him, the parties are expected to exchange the lists of names this week.

Today, Zelenskyy said that the first two exchanges could take place as early as June 7–8. The Russian side has also confirmed this.

Ukraine and Russia also agreed to exchange the bodies of fallen soldiers, although that is expected to happen after the prisoner exchange.