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Ukraine and Russia exchange prisoners of war: Mariupol defenders are among those released. Photos and videos

Prisoner exchange February 5, 2025 – Ukraine and Russia exchange prisoners
Ukraine and Russia conducted another exchange of prisoners. Source: Volodymyr Zelenskyy

On February 5, 2025, another prisoner exchange took place, as a result of which 150 defenders returned from Russian captivity. Among them are soldiers, National Guardsmen, border guards,  territorial defense fighters, and a police officer.

Ukraine has returned home soldiers, sergeants, and officers. This was announced by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy. These are soldiers of the Navy, who were captured in Mariupol and Zaporizhzhia region, soldiers of the Air Force, the Air Assault and Land Forces, the National Guardsmen, border guards,  territorial defense fighters, and a police officer.

According to him, all the returned defenders are from different frontline areas, but they have one thing in common – they fought for Ukraine.

"Some of the guys were in captivity for more than two years. And today is a day that means more to them and their families than years of waiting. It is a real happiness to see them at home, alive and free," he said.

Zelenskyy thanked everyone who is working to bring our people back.

"I thank our partners, in particular the UAE, and those who support us on this path. We are working to return everyone," the president added.

As a reminder, the first prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia in 2025 took place on January 15. Back then, 25 Ukrainians were returned home, including the defenders of Mariupol and Azovstal, soldiers who defended Kharkiv, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions, and one civilian. The youngest released Ukrainian is 24 years old, and the oldest is 60 years old. They have not received proper medical care for a long time, so they have injuries and serious illnesses.

According to President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukraine is constantly working to bring its people home. The exchange on January 15 was made possible thanks to the assistance of the United Arab Emirates.

Zelenskyy also said that in 2024, 1358 Ukrainians were returned home from Russian captivity. A total of 11 exchanges took place, and in 2025 Ukraine must do everything to return even more of its citizens.

As OBOZ.UA previously reported, Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights Dmytro Lubinets said that prisoner exchanges in 2025 could be systematic, as there are agreements with Russia. First of all, the exchange lists will be formed on the basis of physical health and length of stay in captivity.

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