​First prisoner swap since Ukraine's offensive: 230 captives freed in Russia-Ukraine exchange

Russia and Ukraine conducted a huge prisoners exchange, with each side releasing 115 prisoners after the mediation from the United Arab Emirates. (Photo: Reuters)

The exchange marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict between the two nations, as it represents the first prisoner swap since Ukraine initiated military operations within Russian territory earlier this month on August 6. (Photo: Reuters)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shared a picture of the released Ukrainian POWs draped in the country's blue and yellow flags, embracing each other. (Photo: Reuters)

This marks the seventh prisoner exchange mediated by the UAE since the beginning of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Both countries expressed their gratitude to the United Arab Emirates for their efforts in facilitating the swap deal. (Photo: Reuters)

UAE officials say that their ability to talk to a range of international actors means that they can effectively mediate between parties and promote cooperation and security. (Photo: Reuters)

The released soldiers are currently in Belarus, where they will receive medical treatment and rehabilitation before returning to Russia as per the Russian defense ministry. (Photo: Reuters)

Confirming its role in facilitating the exchange, the UAE foreign ministry said that the total number of captives exchanged through its mediation efforts now stood at 1,788. (Photo: Reuters)

Zelenskiy signed a law ratifying the Rome Statute, allowing Ukraine to join the International criminal court. The law published on the parliament’s website is also key to Ukraine’s efforts to move closer to the European Union. (Photo: Reuters)