Largest Prisoner Exchange Between Russia and Ukraine Mediated by the UAE – 538 Prisoners Freed

Largest Prisoner Exchange Between Russia and Ukraine Mediated by the UAE – 538 Prisoners Freed
April 20, 2025 – Gulf Today reports that in an effort to promote restraint and humanitarian assistance amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has successfully mediated the largest prisoner exchange between the two countries to date.

A total of 538 prisoners—246 Ukrainians and 246 Russians—were exchanged. Additionally, 31 wounded Ukrainian and 15 wounded Russian prisoners were included in the exchange.

With this development, the total number of prisoners exchanged under the UAE’s mediation has now reached 3,771, marking the UAE’s 14th successful mediation initiative in the conflict.

In a statement, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs said:

“This largest exchange between Russia and Ukraine reflects both nations’ trust and appreciation for the UAE’s role. We are grateful for their cooperation.”

The UAE added that it remains committed to working toward a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict and is prioritizing efforts to alleviate humanitarian suffering, particularly that of refugees and prisoners affected by the war.

In one emotional moment captured during the exchange, a Ukrainian prisoner named Oleksandr was seen wrapped in the national flag, embracing his mother. Another freed prisoner was seen joyfully taking selfies with family members—testaments to the emotional reunions that followed the release.

Analysts believe that the UAE’s neutral and strategic diplomacy is becoming a significant example of international peacebuilding and mediation.