Ukraine and Russia carried out their fourth prisoner of war (POW) exchange in a week on Saturday, June 14, as confirmed by both sides. The exchange follows agreements made earlier this month in Istanbul. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on social media that efforts to free captured Ukrainians from Russian custody are ongoing.
Russia’s defence ministry, in a statement on Telegram, confirmed the return of more Russian servicemen from Ukrainian-held territory. Ukraine also reported receiving 1,200 unidentified bodies from Russia—reportedly Ukrainian citizens, including military personnel—as part of the same agreement. However, Kyiv did not specify whether any bodies were returned to Russia.
Photos shared by Zelensky showed freed Ukrainian POWs of varying ages—many in camouflage and draped in Ukrainian flags—some appearing injured or visibly emotional as they reunited with their families and comrades. Meanwhile, Russia’s defence ministry released footage of its returning soldiers wrapped in Russian flags, chanting and celebrating during their transfer in Belarus.
The swap took place amid escalating tensions. Russia has rejected ceasefire proposals and ramped up operations along the frontline. In the northeastern Sumy region—where Russian forces are seeking to create a buffer zone to protect the Kursk area—fighting has intensified. Zelensky stated that Ukrainian forces have halted Russia’s advances and recaptured one village. He also reported that about 53,000 Russian troops are currently involved in the Sumy offensive.
