On Wednesday, Russia and Ukraine engaged in the largest single release of prisoners of war since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Ukrainian authorities reported that 230 Ukrainian prisoners of war returned home, while Russia’s Defence Ministry stated that 248 Russian servicemen were freed under a deal sponsored by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The UAE credited the success of the exchange to its “strong friendly relations” with both Russia and Ukraine. The UAE has maintained economic ties with Moscow despite Western sanctions. The exchange marked the 49th during the war, according to Ukraine’s Human Rights Ombudsman.
In a related development, Russia claimed to have shot down 12 missiles fired at one of its southern regions bordering Ukraine. The border city of Belgorod came under two rounds of shelling on Wednesday morning, contributing to heightened tensions in the region. The situation remains tense, with air defence systems successfully intercepting the missiles. The Russian Defence Ministry reported that Ukraine fired missiles and rockets at the region, with the attacks targeting civilian areas. Belgorod has become a focal point, with Kyiv’s forces aiming to disrupt city life, challenging President Vladimir Putin’s narrative that life in Russia is continuing normally despite the ongoing conflict. The attacks on Belgorod appear to be unsettling the public and political leaders in Russia, prompting a strong response from Putin.
The intensified attacks on Russian territory have led to power disruptions in the city of Zeleznogorsk, which was briefly cut off from the grid due to Ukrainian shelling. Russia has increased long-range attacks on Ukrainian cities, deploying Kinzhal missiles and targeting Ukraine’s defence industry. In response, Kyiv has requested further air defence support from its Western allies. NATO announced plans to assist member nations in purchasing up to 1,000 surface-to-air Patriot guided missiles, potentially costing about $5.5 billion, to enhance air defence capabilities.