Russia, Ukraine Agree Largest Prisoner, Fallen Bodies Exchange

Russia and Ukraine have agreed to a significant prisoner exchange involving all seriously ill or wounded prisoners of war and all POWs under the age of 25, with a cap of at least 1,000 people from each side. Both countries will also exchange the bodies of 12,000 fallen soldiers—6,000 from each side—with Russia unilaterally transferring 6,000 identified and DNA-tested frozen bodies of Ukrainian servicemen and civilians for proper burial. The negotiations included discussions of a temporary localized ceasefire lasting two to three days in specific front-line sectors to facilitate the collection and transfer of bodies. Russia has also presented a detailed draft memorandum to Ukraine outlining proposals for long-term peace and steps toward a full ceasefire, which Ukraine is currently reviewing. Additionally, medical commissions will be established by both sides to create exchange lists and conduct prisoner swaps routinely without waiting for major political decisions. These developments mark one of the most humane agreements during the war, aiming to bring compassion amid ongoing conflict.