Today marked the initial phase of the prisoner exchange under the agreements made in Istanbul.

The first group of released servicemen, consisting of individuals under 25, has returned home.

This achievement is the result of the persistent efforts of the President of Ukraine, the negotiation team, and the Coordination Headquarters for the treatment of prisoners of war.

Among those released are representatives from various military branches, including the Navy, Ground Forces, Air Forces, and others.

Included in the released are defenders of Mariupol, who spent more than 3 years in captivity.

This exchange is just the first part of a large-scale operation that will continue under the agreed terms.

The exchange specifically concerns certain categories of prisoners, including those under 25, severely wounded, and gravely ill captives.

Efforts are also ongoing to repatriate the bodies of fallen soldiers who defended the homeland.

The returned defenders will receive all necessary support, including document restoration, financial compensation for the time in captivity, and medical rehabilitation.

The 66th round of prisoner exchanges is ongoing. Due to security reasons, final figures of those released will be announced after the completion of the exchange process.

Ukraine is consistently working towards the implementation of the “all for all” exchange formula across all categories.