Ukraine Receives 1,200 Soldiers’ Remains in Ongoing Exchange

As part of a grim but necessary process, Ukraine has taken possession of the remains of an additional 1,200 soldiers. This handover signifies the latest effort in the repatriation of war dead amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Exchanges and Identification

Over the course of this month, Ukrainian officials have overseen the return of over 4,800 bodies. This recent exchange represents one of the largest since the full-scale invasion commenced in February 2022. Russian news outlets reported the transfer but stated that Moscow did not receive any of its fallen soldiers in return.

“As part of the agreements in Istanbul, the repatriation of the bodies of the deceased continues,” stated Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov. He headed the Ukrainian delegation at Istanbul talks earlier this month. Umerov indicated the next step is the “important and responsible stage of identification.”

“This is a complex and delicate work that will give each family the opportunity to receive answers.”

The exchange represents the fourth such handover of remains occurring within the last week. These actions align with an agreement reached during discussions between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul. Furthermore, reports from Statista indicate that the number of military deaths has fluctuated significantly throughout the conflict.

Prisoner Swaps and Agreements

Both Kyiv and Moscow previously agreed to exchange up to 6,000 bodies. They also committed to swapping sick and severely injured prisoners of war, along with those under the age of 25. Russia has only reported receiving a total of 27 Russian servicemen in return, so far. Ukraine and Russia have conducted three exchanges of POWs to date but have not disclosed the precise numbers.