Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky

 Zelensky Thanks UAE for Its Efforts in Prisoner Exchange

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky extended special thanks to the United Arab Emirates for its renewed successful mediation efforts that led to the release of a number of Ukrainian prisoners as part of a prisoner exchange deal between Russia and Ukraine.

Zelensky stated on platform X: “Our people have returned home – it’s one of the best pieces of news possible.”

He added: “I thank everyone who made the return of our citizens possible. I am especially grateful to the United Arab Emirates for its mediation.”

The UAE announced the success of its mediation efforts between the Russian Federation and Ukraine, which led to the largest prisoner exchange since the beginning of the conflict between the two countries. The mediation also included the exchange of a number of wounded individuals from both sides.

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its gratitude to both countries for their cooperation in making the UAE's mediation efforts successful, reflecting their trust and appreciation of the UAE's commitment to supporting all efforts aimed at resolving the crisis.

The ministry noted that with the success of this operation, the total number of UAE-mediated exchanges during the crisis now stands at 14. These efforts stem from the  UAE's strong and distinguished relations with both the Russian Federation and Ukraine. 

The Ministry reaffirmed the UAE’s continued commitment to supporting all initiatives aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine and alleviating the humanitarian impact, including issues concerning refugees and prisoners.