Russia, Ukraine Swop First Group of Prisoners in Large-Scale Exchange

POW exchange, repatriation of bodies the only concrete agreement at talks on June 2

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MOSCOW - Russia and Ukraine swopped a first group of captured soldiers on June 9 as part of an agreement reached during peace talks that appeared to be in doubt over the weekend.

The deal to exchange prisoners of war (POWs) and repatriate the bodies of killed fighters was the only concrete agreement reached at the talks, which have failed to lead to a breakthrough towards ending the three-year war.

Progress has stalled as Russia has issued tough conditions for halting its invasion and has repeatedly rejected calls for an unconditional ceasefire.

"Today an exchange began, which will continue in several stages over the coming days," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on social media.

He posted images of soldiers draped in Ukrainian flags, cheering and hugging.

"Among those we are bringing back now are the wounded, the severely wounded, and those under the age of 25," he added.

Russia's defence ministry also confirmed the swop was part of "agreements reached" on June 2 in Istanbul.

Neither side said how many prisoners were released.