Russia and Ukraine are set to exchange 115 prisoners each on Saturday, thanks to successful mediation by the UAE, according to an Emirati official. This marks the seventh exchange facilitated by the UAE since the start of 2024.
The UAE official, who spoke to Reuters under the condition of anonymity, noted that this is the first prisoner exchange since Ukraine's recent offensive inside Russia. Russia launched its military operation in Ukraine in 2022.
To date, the UAE has mediated the release of 1,788 prisoners
UAE officials emphasized their unique ability to engage with a wide range of international actors, enabling them to effectively promote cooperation and security. Including those set to be released today, the UAE has facilitated the release of 1,788 prisoners so far.
Earlier this month, Ukrainian forces launched a surprise attack in Russia’s Kursk region. Kyiv claims to have established a buffer zone in an area used by Russia to target Ukrainian sites, according to Reuters.
The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict began on February 24, 2022, when Russian troops entered Ukraine. In the sixth exchange on July 17, the UAE mediated the release of 190 soldiers, prompting thanks from Ukrainian President Zelenskyy.
UAE’s role as a trusted international mediator
In previous exchanges, the UAE government expressed its gratitude to Russian and Ukrainian officials for their cooperation. The July deal came less than a month after the last one, with earlier exchanges occurring in May, February, and twice in January.
The UAE remains committed to ongoing efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict. These multiple prisoner exchanges underscore the Emirates' status as a trusted mediator on the international stage.
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