Russia has accused Ukraine of postponing a planned prisoner exchange and the acceptance of soldiers' bodies indefinitely, escalating tensions amid ongoing conflict. Kremlin aide Vladimir Medinsky stated Saturday that over 6,000 bodies of Ukrainian servicemen were prepared for transfer under Istanbul agreements, with 1,212 already stored in refrigerated containers at an exchange point.
🔍 Medinsky added that Russia shared a list of 640 prisoners categorized as wounded, seriously ill, or under 25 for potential swaps. "We are ready to fulfill all obligations," he emphasized on Telegram, urging Ukraine to "stop delaying" the process.
💬 Ukraine has not yet responded to the claims. The delay raises questions about humanitarian efforts in the war, which has seen limited progress since Russia's 2022 invasion. Analysts suggest logistical challenges or political disagreements could be factors.
🌐 This development comes as global leaders push for de-escalation, with the UN reiterating calls for dialogue. For young readers tracking geopolitics, this stalemate highlights the human cost of war—and the fragile hopes for peace.
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Russia says Ukraine postpones prisoner exchange, accepting bodies
cgtn.com