Ukrainian Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets has reported that the Ukrainian negotiation team has submitted lists for a prisoner exchange promised by former U.S. President Donald Trump. However, he claims that Russia is stalling the process while blaming Ukraine for the delays.
During a national telethon, Lubinets stated, “When you agree on something with the Russians, you can never be 100% sure that it will be honored by them. In reality, the work has not stopped. Negotiation processes are ongoing every day.” He emphasized that Ukraine has fulfilled all its obligations, including the submission of the necessary lists, and now the ball is in Russia’s court. Instead of moving forward, he accused Russia of manipulating the situation.
In related developments, on May 8, former President Trump announced a three-day ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed this ceasefire and announced a planned exchange of prisoners on May 9, where 1,000 prisoners would be exchanged for another 1,000. Zelensky also issued a decree allowing Russia to hold a parade on May 9 as part of the ceasefire agreement. Russia had previously agreed to support Trump’s initiative for a ceasefire and the prisoner exchange from May 9 to May 11.
Ukrainian Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets has accused Russia of delaying a promised prisoner exchange, stating that Ukraine has met its obligations. The situation follows a ceasefire announced by former President Trump, aimed at facilitating negotiations.