Russia and Ukraine prepare new prisoner exchange amid ongoing war

Russian human‑rights commissioner Yana Lantratova said Russia and Ukraine are finalising the lists for a new exchange of prisoners, including both civilians and military personnel. The parties are coordinating the details but have not announced a date, to avoid jeopardising the operation. Lantratova confirmed daily contact with Ukrainian Ombudsman Dmytro Lupinets and noted a high volume of inquiries from families awaiting news.

The latest exchange follows a January swap in which Russia released 15 Ukrainian soldiers in return for 16 Russian detainees. Negotiations have been ongoing for weeks, reportedly mediated by the United Arab Emirates, as the conflict enters its fifth year and the number of captives continues to rise.