Ukraine and russia have agreed to a major new prisoner exchange and the return of 12,000 fallen soldiers. Delegations met briefly on Monday June 2 in Istanbul — their second direct dialogue since March 2022. The first on May 16, where the original 1,000 for 1,000 POW exchange was brokered.
Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed both sides will exchange seriously wounded and sick prisoners, as well as young soldiers aged 18-25, in an “all-for-all” deal. russia’s negotiator Vladimir Medinsky said at least 1,000 POWs will be swapped per side — matching last month’s exchange.
Yet, while these humanitarian steps are welcome, russia again rejected an unconditional ceasefire. In addition, they refused hundreds of childrens’ names to be returned home to Ukraine. Instead, russia’s delegation offered only a limited pause on hostilities.
“While we see headlines and talks of ceasefire and peace deals, Ukrainians are experiencing what russians are really like… They have only increased their attacks both on civilian objects and across the frontline,” said AFUO Chair Kateryna Argyrou.
The last few weeks have seen a marked escalation of drones and missile attacks on civilians, killing dozens and injuring countless more all across Ukraine.
The only way we can achieve just and lasting peace is if russia is defeated on the battlefield. This is why it is incredibly important, at a time when Ukraine has brazenly shown its technological and military strength through its genius “SpiderWeb” Operation, for the global community — including Australia — to stand behind Ukraine in its fight for democracy and human rights.
