Today, Ukraine has completed another significant phase of the prisoner exchange, focusing on severely wounded and critically ill defenders.

In accordance with the agreements reached in Istanbul, a group of defenders suffering from serious injuries has been returned from Russian captivity.

The returned individuals include servicemen from the Armed Forces of Ukraine, particularly from the Navy, Ground Forces, and other units.

All those freed today belong to the ranks of soldiers and sergeants.

Among them are defenders of Mariupol who have been held in captivity since 2022.

Each of the released has serious medical issues, including epilepsy, hypertension, and other ailments. Many have experienced significant weight loss.

The returned defenders will receive medical assistance and rehabilitation. They will also be provided with new documents and financial support for the time spent in captivity.

The exchange process continues under the Istanbul agreements, and the exact number of released individuals will be announced after all phases are complete.

The Coordination Headquarters is continuing its work. We are committed to bringing everyone back!