A new diplomatic clash has emerged between Kyiv and Moscow following Russia’s accusation that Ukraine delayed a planned prisoner exchange and body repatriation. While the Kremlin points the finger at Ukraine, Ukrainian officials deny any wrongdoing and condemn what they describe as deliberate disinformation on an emotionally sensitive issue.
Russian Accusations: Propaganda or Reality?
Russian negotiator Vladimir Medinsky claimed that Ukraine unilaterally postponed the scheduled prisoner exchange over the weekend. He stated that 1,212 bodies had already been transported to the exchange site, along with a list of 640 Ukrainian prisoners who met the agreed criteria. However, he alleged that the Ukrainian delegation failed to appear at the location.
Ukrainian Response: A Clear Rebuttal
Ukraine’s Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War promptly rejected the Russian narrative. Ukrainian officials confirmed that they had provided their exchange lists in advance but criticized the Russian side for submitting lists that did not match the agreed terms.
“Ukraine is now awaiting a proper response from the Russian side,” the statement emphasized.
As for the body repatriation, Ukrainian authorities acknowledged that an agreement had been reached, but no specific date had been finalized. They accused Russia of acting unilaterally outside the jointly established framework.
Escalating Tensions and Misinformation
The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence urged Russia to refrain from spreading falsehoods and creating artificial barriers to cooperation. Kyiv accused Moscow of attempting to retroactively alter previously reached agreements, thereby undermining an already delicate humanitarian process.
Recent Background: A Pattern of Misinformation
On June 6, Russia had already circulated a false report claiming the start of a repatriation process. It later accused Ukraine of refusing to retrieve the remains of its own soldiers. Ukrainian officials strongly condemned this, stating that Russia was exploiting a deeply sensitive humanitarian matter for propaganda.
What Was Agreed in Istanbul
During the June 2 negotiations in Istanbul, Ukraine and Russia agreed to a “6,000 for 6,000” soldier remains exchange, along with the mutual release of all severely wounded soldiers and those aged between 18 and 25. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had announced plans for two rounds of prisoner exchanges over the weekend, involving 500 Ukrainian soldiers.
Conclusion:
This latest incident highlights the fragility of humanitarian agreements between Russia and Ukraine, even on matters as sensitive as fallen soldiers and prisoners of war. As Russia is accused of using disinformation as a geopolitical tool, Ukraine reiterates its commitment to upholding its part of the deal and calls for transparent, good-faith cooperation to alleviate the suffering of families affected by the war.
What's happening in Tunisia?
Subscribe to our Youtube channel for updates.
