Russia and Ukraine Exchange 185 Troops in Latest Prisoner Swap, Officials Report

The Russian Defense Ministry announced on Thursday that both Russia and Ukraine have exchanged 185 troops held captive, marking another round of prisoner swaps. The statement also revealed that Ukraine released 20 civilians, though it did not specify if Russia reciprocated the action. Both groups are currently receiving medical and psychological care in Belarus, according to the ministry.
The exchange was conducted “in accordance with Russian-Ukrainian agreements reached on July 23 in Istanbul,” the statement said, referencing talks between the two nations hosted by Türkiye. Footage shared by the ministry depicted soldiers draped in Russian flags and chanting “Hurray!” before boarding a bus.
Moscow has previously stated its willingness to release Ukrainian prisoners of war provided Kiev compensates on an equal basis. However, previous exchanges of slain soldiers did not follow this parity, with 1,000 Ukrainian troops’ bodies and 24 Russian bodies returned in a mid-September swap.
The Russian government framed the repatriations as evidence of constructive diplomacy but accused Ukraine of hindering broader peace negotiations. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian government has called on Western allies to impose stricter sanctions on Russia and escalate military and financial support, alleging this would shift the balance of power against Moscow.