Ukraine says Russia has returned the bodies of one thousand Ukrainian soldiers in the most recent exchange between the two countries. In return, Russia received thirty eight bodies, according to Moscow’s chief negotiator Vladimir Medinsky.
Medinsky shared images on Telegram from the exchange site. The photos show officials in protective suits standing beside refrigerated trucks used to transport the bodies.
Ongoing Returns Under Wartime Agreements
Ukraine and Russia have returned thousands of fallen soldiers since the war began almost four years ago. These exchanges follow agreements aimed at giving families closure and respecting humanitarian norms during the conflict.
The latest transfer follows a deal reached during talks in Istanbul in twenty twenty five. Under that agreement, both sides committed to returning the remains of twelve thousand soldiers. They also agreed to exchange all seriously wounded prisoners of war, sick detainees, and captives under the age of twenty five.
Previous Exchanges and Prisoner Stalemate
The last major exchange happened in November last year. At that time, Russia returned one thousand Ukrainian bodies and received thirty in return.
Despite these efforts, the exchange of prisoners of war has stalled. No prisoner swap has taken place since October twenty twenty five. Each side accuses the other of delaying the process.
Peace Talks Continue as War Nears Anniversary
As February approaches, the war nears the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full scale invasion of Ukraine in twenty twenty two. Diplomatic efforts continue, even as fighting persists on the ground.
Last week, negotiators from Russia, Ukraine, and the United States met in the United Arab Emirates. This marked the first trilateral talks since the war began. All parties described the discussions as constructive.
However, major disagreements remain. One of the most difficult issues involves territory. Russia continues to demand that Ukraine give up the remaining portion of the Donetsk region still under Ukrainian control, roughly one quarter of the area.
Drone Attacks and Civilian Impact
Despite diplomatic talks, both countries continue drone strikes. Violence has not eased.
On Tuesday, a Russian drone hit a passenger train in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region. The strike killed at least five people, according to Ukrainian officials.
Russia has also increased attacks on infrastructure targets in recent months. These strikes have damaged power and heating systems, leaving many Ukrainians facing extreme cold without basic services.
