Ukraine Returns 182 Prisoners of War in Major Easter Swap

Ukraine has secured the return of 182 soldiers and civilians from Russian captivity. The prisoner exchange occurred just before the Orthodox Easter holiday. Officials stated the group includes soldiers who defended the cities of Mariupol and Kherson. Some had been held captive since 2022. The released prisoners are now receiving medical care and support. This is one of the largest single exchanges in months. It brings the total number of Ukrainians repatriated this year to over 1,300. Analysts note Ukraine continues to use successful drone strikes to gain leverage. However, they warn that advanced Western aid is arriving too slowly. This delay may prevent Ukraine from fully exploiting its battlefield innovations before Russia reorganizes its forces. Both sides continue to engage in regular, smaller-scale prisoner swaps.