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UAE mediation facilitates second Russia-Ukraine prisoner exchange in January
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5 months agoon
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Russia and Ukraine have exchanged about 400 prisoners of war in the second major swap last month. Russia’s military said each side had received 195 soldiers, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said 207 Ukrainian soldiers and civilians had come back.
Good news. The one we have been waiting for. Today, we were able to free 207 more Ukrainians from Russian captivity. 180 privates and sergeants. 27 officers.
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) January 31, 2024
Almost half of them are Mariupol defenders. Armed Forces, National Guard, Border Guard, and National Police — 207… pic.twitter.com/mf0OPDljsU
UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the successful prisoner exchange on January 31, highlighting that the development reflects the global status of the Emirates as a trusted partner on the international stage, especially by Russia and Ukraine.
The Ministry expressed its appreciation to the governments of the two countries for their cooperation and response to UAE mediation to make the exchange deal a success, according to the WAM (the official news agency of the Gulf state).
UAE calling for diplomacy, dialogue, de-escalation
In its statement, the Ministry also affirmed the UAE’s commitment to continuing efforts aimed at finding a peaceful solution to the raging conflict in Ukraine – sadly approaching its second anniversary on February 24.
The Emirates highlighted its consistent position in calling for diplomacy, dialogue and de-escalation, and its endeavours to support all initiatives aimed at mitigating the concerning humanitarian repercussions resulting from the crisis.
The latest prisoner exchange didn’t represent the first mediation from the UAE. The GCC nation also helped facilitate another swap in early January, resulting in the release of captives from Russia and Ukraine. 248 individuals returned to Russia and 230, to Ukraine.
The early January swap represented one of the most complex deals of the 23-month conflict. In addition, the UAE’s another successful mediation in December 2022 cannot be overlooked, that led to the release and exchange of two prisoners between the US and Russia.
First prisoner exchange since mysterious plane crash
The Russian Defence Ministry noted: “The released military personnel will be transported by military transport aircraft to Moscow for treatment and rehabilitation,” adding all those released are offered medical and psychological assistance, as per The National.
Russia also appreciated the role the UAE played in mediating the negotiations. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Zelensky took to X, previously known as Twitter, stressing: “Our people are back. 207 of them. We return them home no matter what.”
Furthermore, the move also marks the first such prisoner exchange since a Russian military plane – carrying 65 captured Ukrainian army servicemen to the Belgorod region for exchange, according to Moscow – crashed near the Ukrainian border last week.
Read More: Arab Health: Dubai solidifying its status as leading global healthcare hub
Ramez covers the News and Reports sections on The Gulf Independent. He holds a notable experience spanning more than six years, delivering timely and informative content on noteworthy developments in the vast Gulf region. Interest: Ramez is your dependable compass for the freshest, unbiased and elaborate coverage of the Middle East and Gulf regional news and events. He believes in the power of giving each story a unique perspective, subsequently inspiring conversation and promoting transparency. Education and Experience: Armed with a promising degree in Journalism and Digital Media from the prestigious American University of Sharjah in the UAE, Ramez has been helping audiences get a better understanding of the region's sensitive issues and massive potential. Email Id: https://twitter.com/RamezSpectnews
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