**Ukraine’s Security Service Begins Preparations for 1,000-for-1,000 Prisoner Swap with Russia**
The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) has started preparing for a large-scale prisoner exchange with Russia, involving 1,000 detainees from each side. This development comes after an agreement was reached between Ukrainian and Russian delegations during talks in Istanbul on May 16.
According to the SBU, they are compiling a list of Russian military personnel currently held in Ukrainian custody who may be handed over to Russia as part of the swap. At the same time, the SBU is working with the Health Ministry and other state agencies to prepare for the reception of Ukrainian soldiers now held by Russian forces. This includes setting up necessary infrastructure, designated locations, and medical staff to facilitate the transfer, escort, and rehabilitation of returning servicemen.
The planned exchange follows an agreement reached between Ukrainian and Russian delegations during talks in Istanbul on May 16. The SBU has stated that they hope the exchange will take place next week, expressing optimism about the absence of major obstacles.
However, it’s worth noting that while Ukraine has pushed for a comprehensive “all-for-all” exchange, Russia has resisted such proposals. Kyiv has not disclosed the full number of Ukrainian prisoners held in Russia. Prisoner swaps remain one of the few ongoing points of cooperation between the two countries amid continuing war.
The prisoner swap is a significant development, especially given the ongoing peace talks between Ukraine and Russia. However, President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized Moscow for sending what he called a “sham delegation” to Istanbul this week for Russian-initiated peace talks. Russian President Vladimir Putin declined to attend, instead appointing his aide Vladimir Medinsky to lead Moscow’s team.
In conclusion, the Ukrainian Security Service has started preparing for a large-scale prisoner exchange with Russia, involving 1,000 detainees from each side. While this development is significant, it remains to be seen how successful the exchange will be and what impact it will have on the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia.
