46 Russian Civilians Returned from Ukraine

Forty-six Russian civilians, including 12 children, have been returned to Russia from Ukraine following negotiations involving the Russian commissioner for human rights and the International Committee of the Red Cross. The civilians were taken during Ukraine's surprise offensive into the Kursk region in August, which resulted in the capture of several settlements. The return was facilitated via Belarus, although the exact circumstances of the civilians' detention in Ukraine remain unclear. Kursk regional governor Alexei Smirnov and human rights ombudsman Tatyana Moskalkova confirmed the successful negotiations, highlighting the humanitarian assistance provided upon their return. This development occurs amid heightened tensions, as Ukraine has recently utilized long-range missiles against targets within Russia, while Russia continues its military operations in Ukraine. Both sides have denied targeting civilians, but the conflict has displaced many residents and led to significant casualties.