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Why are Ukraine and Russia exchanging prisoners now?
The exchanges are part of limited diplomatic efforts to ease tensions and recover fallen soldiers' remains. Despite ongoing fighting, both sides agreed in Istanbul to exchange thousands of prisoners and bodies, mainly as a humanitarian gesture. However, these exchanges are tactical and do not signal a move toward peace negotiations.
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What is the current status of the prisoner exchanges?
Russia has returned the bodies of around 1,000 Ukrainian soldiers, with plans to exchange a total of 3,000. The process is facilitated by the Red Cross and is one of the few cooperative efforts since the invasion began. Negotiations continue to be stalled over broader peace terms and territorial disputes.
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Why are bodies being exchanged now?
Bodies are exchanged to allow families to recover their loved ones and to provide some closure amid ongoing conflict. These exchanges also serve as a diplomatic gesture, showing a willingness to cooperate despite the broader hostilities.
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What does this mean for ongoing peace efforts?
While prisoner and body exchanges are positive humanitarian steps, they do not necessarily indicate progress toward peace. Negotiations over ceasefires and territorial issues remain stalled, and the exchanges are seen as tactical moves rather than steps toward ending the conflict.
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How are families affected by these exchanges?
Families of missing soldiers and loved ones benefit from the exchanges by finally recovering remains or receiving their loved ones back. However, concerns remain over the treatment of prisoners and whether exchanged POWs are sent back into combat, which raises humanitarian and legal questions.