Trump and Putin agree to prisoner exchange for de‑escalation
After Donald Trump's phone conversation with Vladimir Putin, the White House and the Kremlin issued statements. Both emphasized the benefits of improving relations between the United States and Russia.
Many of the reports provided by Russian media and authorities are likely not accurate. Such reports may be part of an information war from the Russian Federation.
The Kremlin's statement addressed a number of issues to which the Russian president allegedly agreed after the talk with the US president.
According to the Kremlin, on March 18 - March 19, 2025, a prisoner exchange will occur between Russia and Ukraine in a 175 to 175 ratio. Additionally, Russia will release 23 severely wounded Ukrainian soldiers as a "gesture of goodwill," allowing them to return to their homeland.
The announcement of the prisoner exchange is a result of the Trump-Putin conversation
The announcement of the prisoner exchange is a result of the Trump-Putin talks, which focused on de-escalating the conflict and the humanitarian aspects of the war.
Donald Trump reportedly personally appealed to Vladimir Putin for the humane treatment of Ukrainian soldiers, especially those surrounded by the Kursk region.
In response, the Kremlin assured that Russia would guarantee the safety and respectful treatment of captured soldiers by Russian laws and international norms.
The exchange will occur on agreed-upon territory, and representatives from both sides and international observers will oversee its execution.
The Russian side emphasized that this is another step toward potentially resolving the conflict, but it is contingent upon fulfilling additional demands regarding the halt of Western arms supplies to Ukraine.
This is not the first prisoner exchange
This is not the first prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine, but this time it is taking place in the context of a proposed 30-day ceasefire.
According to the Kremlin, the safety guarantee of the released prisoners will depend on adherence to agreements and the cessation of hostilities on the designated sections of the front.
