160 Ukrainian defenders freed in prisoner swap, including Azov fighters and 58 officers.

Prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia on June 26

According to Novyny.live: A major prisoner exchange took place on June 26, 2023, bringing 160 Ukrainian defenders back home. Among those released were members of the Azov regiment, officers, and soldiers from various units. Most had been held captive since 2022, highlighting the prolonged period of their isolation.

According to available data, the group of returnees included:

• 58 officers
• 115 defenders of Mariupol
• 21 individuals sharing the same surname

The oldest former captive is 66 years old, while the youngest is just 26. To date, the Coordination Headquarters has secured the release of 9,606 military personnel and civilians from captivity, with over 7,000 citizens now back home from Russian detention.

Dmytro Lubinets, a Ukrainian state official, stated:

“Ukrainian state authorities have succeeded in freeing 160 Ukrainians from Russian captivity.”

This exchange marks a significant step in the ongoing effort to bring home Ukrainian military and civilian personnel who have been under enemy control for an extended period.

Prisoner swaps between Ukraine and Russia remain a critical issue amid the continuing conflict. The return of 160 Ukrainian defenders underscores Ukraine's commitment to recovering its military and civilian citizens. It also highlights the urgent need for further negotiations to secure the release of those still in captivity, a key humanitarian concern in the region.