Budanov announced a major prisoner exchange next week
A new major prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia could take place as early as next week. The head of the Office of the President, Kirill Budanov, stated that news on this matter is expected in the near future. However, he did not specify an exact date or the number of people who may be returned.
Ukraine is anticipating a new large-scale prisoner exchange with Russia. According to Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Office of the President, it could take place in the coming days or next week. A reporter asked him when news regarding the exchange could be expected. “It should happen very soon, in the near future. I think within the week,” Budanov replied.
The reporter then asked for clarification on whether he was referring specifically to next week. “We hope so,” said the head of the Office of the President. Thus, the Ukrainian side expects that the next phase of the exchange could take place as early as the week beginning September 28. At the same time, Budanov did not specify a particular date, the number of prisoners, or other details of the upcoming exchange.
What Else Is Known
Budanov has spoken previously about preparations for a new large-scale exchange. In late August, he stated that Ukraine and Russia are maintaining contact, which currently focuses primarily on prisoner exchanges. According to him, this issue remains one of the main topics of dialogue between the parties. However, specific agreements regarding the upcoming exchange have not been publicly disclosed. This applies to both its format and the number of people who may be returned home.
Therefore, the current discussion centers on an anticipated exchange, rather than an event with an officially confirmed date. The final timing may depend on the preparations of both sides. If the exchange takes place, official information regarding the return of Ukrainians is expected to be released by the relevant government agencies. Budanov made this statement in a comment to a Novyny.LIVE journalist on September 27.
