Russian President Vladimir Putin has claimed that Ukraine is allegedly “not ready” for a prisoner exchange with Russia. However, officials from Ukraine’s presidential office have refuted this assertion, stating that negotiations for a significant exchange are actively ongoing.
A source within the Ukrainian presidential office told Suspilne that Putin’s statements are inaccurate. The source emphasized that an agreement had been reached with the mediation of the United States, and the actual execution of the exchange hinges on the American side’s ability to act as a guarantor. “Active contacts are currently taking place regarding this matter,” the source added.
On May 9, Putin stated that Russia had provided Ukraine with a list of 500 Ukrainian servicemen for exchange on May 5. He claimed that Ukrainian representatives had directly communicated their unpreparedness for the exchange, although he did not specify who these representatives were.
Previously, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a three-day ceasefire during the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, set for May 9, 10, and 11, alongside a new prisoner exchange plan involving 1,000 individuals from each side. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed both the ceasefire and the exchange.
“Today, as part of the negotiation process mediated by the American side, we received Russia’s consent to conduct a prisoner exchange in the format of 1,000 for 1,000. A ceasefire will also be established on May 9, 10, and 11. Ukraine is consistently working to bring its people back from Russian captivity,” Zelensky stated.
Ukrainian officials have dismissed Putin's claims regarding Ukraine's readiness for a prisoner exchange, asserting that negotiations are ongoing with U.S. mediation. The situation remains fluid as both sides prepare for a potential exchange amid a proposed ceasefire.
Source: Suspilne