On March 6, 2026, a significant prisoner exchange is anticipated between Ukraine and Russia, according to Bogdan Okhrimenko, head of the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War.
In a statement to Suspilne, Okhrimenko indicated that Ukraine expects the return of 300 citizens during this exchange. He noted that the arrangements were made in Geneva and that communication with the Russian side continues, although he expressed concern that the lists of individuals involved had not been updated.
“We are aware that during prisoner exchanges, there are often individuals who were previously reported missing,” Okhrimenko stated.
Earlier on March 5, Ukraine successfully brought back 12 defenders from Mariupol, five of whom participated in the defense of Azovstal. Okhrimenko emphasized that among those returned were severely ill and injured individuals who would receive immediate medical assistance.
“Different categories of individuals from various years are included in this exchange, with most being from 2022, 2023, and a significant number from 2024,” he added.
This latest exchange on March 5 saw 200 individuals return to Ukraine, including members of the Armed Forces, the State Special Transport Service, border guards, and National Guard personnel. The previous exchange occurred on February 5, when 157 Ukrainians, including both military and civilians, were returned, matching the number of individuals transferred to Russia.
A prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia is set for March 6, 2026, with 300 citizens expected to return. This follows a previous exchange on March 5, where Ukraine regained 200 individuals, including military personnel.