Ukraine handed over traitors and spies to Russia during a large-scale prisoner exchange

Ukraine handed over traitors and spies to Russia during a large-scale prisoner exchange

During a large-scale prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia that took place on May 23, several high-ranking traitors convicted of treason, espionage, and preparing a coup were handed over to the Russian side.

Among those handed over were:

Oleksandr Tarnashynskyi – an associate of Putin’s ally Viktor Medvedchuk. In 2022, he was sentenced to 5 years in prison for attempting to organize a coup in Ukraine.

Ukraine handed over traitors and spies to Russia during a large-scale prisoner exchange

Vasyl Mekheda – a former official of the Cabinet of Ministers who worked for the Russian FSB for 15 years. In 2023, he was sentenced to 12 years for treason and espionage.

Ukraine handed over traitors and spies to Russia during a large-scale prisoner exchange

Vitaliy Vasylyev – a former SSU lieutenant colonel who, after the war began, sided with the terrorist organization "LPR" and helped recruit Ukrainian security forces. He received a 5-year prison sentence.

Ukraine handed over traitors and spies to Russia during a large-scale prisoner exchange

All three were featured in Ukrainian special service investigations as key figures in anti-Ukrainian activities within state structures. Their handover took place as part of an "all for all" exchange, during which about a thousand Ukrainian defenders were returned.

The authorities emphasize: the highest value is the lives of Ukrainian soldiers, and their return is an undeniable priority.