June 18, Kathmandu — Preparations are underway for the next phase of prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine. The process of verifying the lists of detainees from both sides is ongoing, according to Yana Lantratova, Russia’s Human Rights Ombudswoman. In an interview with the Russian daily newspaper Izvestia, Lantratova expressed optimism that the prisoner exchange process is continuously progressing and that a new phase of exchanges will take place soon.
Due to security sensitivities and the potential impact on final outcomes, she stated that specific dates and detailed information about the exchange cannot be disclosed. However, she emphasized that regular communication is maintained between officials from both countries, the lists are being worked on, and she is confident that the process will yield positive results shortly. Previously, on June 26, the Russian Defense Ministry reported the release and repatriation of 160 Russian soldiers detained by Ukraine. In return, 160 Ukrainian soldiers were handed over to Ukraine as prisoners of war, according to reports.
