Russia and Ukraine announced Monday a swap of more than 300 prisoners of war.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced his team secured the return of 189 Ukrainians, while Russia announced the return of 150 service members.
“The return of our people from Russian captivity is always very good news for each of us. And today is one of those days,” Zelensky wrote in a post announcing the exchange.
“We are working to free each and every one from Russian captivity. This is our goal. We do not forget anyone,” Zelensky added. “Thank you to the team that is doing everything to ensure that our people return. Thank you to all partners, in particular the UAE, who are helping us with this.”
Tatyana Moskalkova, the Russian commissioner for human rights, said the same number of Russian and Ukrainian service members were exchanged in the deal. The New York Times reported that the 150 Ukrainians did not include the border guards and two civilians.
Moskalkova greeted the service members Monday and said in a post, “Very soon our guys will hug their families and friends and celebrate the New Year on their native land.”
The exchange was announced on the same day the U.S. announced a new military aid package for Ukraine.
The prisoner swap was the largest in months and was brokered by the United Arab Emirates.
