In his evening address, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine and Russia will continue the exchange of prisoners of war under the agreements reached. The latest exchange is already the fourth in the last seven days.
"Today, we were able to bring another group of our warriors home. Among them are officers of the Armed Forces, border guards, as well as soldiers and sergeants. This is very important—our people must return home," noted the head of state.
According to the president, among those released are defenders of Mariupol, fighters from "Azovstal," and other directions who spent nearly two years in Russian captivity. Many of them have sustained serious injuries and endured extremely harsh detention conditions.
"All the released are already on Ukrainian soil, receiving medical assistance and psychological support. The condition of many remains difficult," Zelenskyy emphasized.
He also reported that Ukraine is continuing efforts to bring back all detained citizens and that preliminary agreements have already been reached to continue the exchanges next week.
"There is an agreement that the exchanges will continue. We expect the Russian side to fulfill its humanitarian obligations according to the agreements," emphasized the president.
Separately, Zelenskyy reported on meetings with the heads of security structures regarding strengthening the protection of Ukrainian skies from enemy drones. He called for more active development of air defence systems, especially interceptor drones, and for strengthening the training of operators and coordination of the relevant units.
"Daily attacks from the RF require faster technological solutions. We must increase the efficiency of our counteraction," the president declared.