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| Russian Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova |
Russia and Ukraine are expected to conduct a significant exchange of prisoners of war on Saturday, 11 April, marking a rare diplomatic breakthrough as the conflict enters its fifth year. The swap is timed to coincide with the eve of Orthodox Easter, a major religious holiday celebrated in both nations.
While the exact number of service members involved has not been publicly confirmed, Russian Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova stated on Thursday that a "great deal of work" was underway to finalise the agreement. She expressed a desire for prisoners on both sides to be home or in their home countries for the holiday, noting that those remaining in custody would be provided with traditional Easter cakes and access to clergy.
The exchange follows a substantial repatriation of fallen soldiers on Thursday, which saw the remains of 1,000 Ukrainian personnel returned in exchange for 41 Russian bodies. This humanitarian activity has been underpinned by a 32-hour ceasefire ordered by President Vladimir Putin, set to begin on Saturday afternoon and continue through Sunday.
Kyrylo Budanov, the head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, echoed the optimism earlier this week, telling reporters he hoped the public would witness a "major exchange" during the Easter period. "Negotiations are ongoing, and new exchanges will take place," Budanov stated in a video message, emphasizing that Kyiv is doing everything necessary to facilitate the return of its citizens.
Prisoner handovers remain the most consistent area of cooperation between the two warring states, often mediated by international partners such as the United Arab Emirates and the United States. Since direct talks resumed with American backing in spring 2025, there have been 30 recorded exchanges of prisoners and fallen soldiers.
Last year’s Easter festivities saw a similar gesture, with over 500 soldiers returned to their respective families. Officials on both sides hope Saturday’s swap will provide a humanitarian pause amidst the ongoing hostilities.