In a highly symbolic and humanitarian gesture amid ongoing hostilities, Russia has announced it will unilaterally hand over 6,000 frozen bodies of Ukrainian soldiers and civilians to Ukraine. The announcement was made by Vladimir Medinsky, a senior Kremlin aide and head of the Russian delegation in the ongoing peace talks held in Istanbul.
Speaking to reporters after the second round of negotiations, Medinsky said the remains had been identified through DNA testing and will be transferred to Ukraine next week to allow for dignified burials.
“We have identified all whom we could, held DNA tests, and found out who they are. We are ready to return them to Ukraine for proper burial,” Medinsky stated.
The move comes as part of a broader agreement reached during the talks, which includes a large-scale prisoner exchange between the two nations. Under the deal, both sides agreed to exchange all seriously ill and heavily wounded prisoners of war, as well as young soldiers aged 18 to 25, on an “all-for-all” basis. The initial quota set for the exchange is at least 1,000 individuals per side, though numbers are still being finalized.
Additionally, the two countries have agreed to establish permanent medical commissions to streamline future exchanges of wounded soldiers, reducing dependence on high-level political decisions.
Child Deportation Allegations Addressed
Medinsky also addressed Ukraine’s claims that Russia has abducted Ukrainian children during the conflict. While rejecting accusations of kidnapping, he confirmed that Russia had received a list of 339 children from Ukraine and would investigate each case.
“These children were not abducted. They were evacuated from conflict zones for their safety. We are actively looking to reunite them with their families,” he asserted.
No Breakthrough in Ceasefire Talks
Despite the progress on humanitarian issues, no concrete agreements were reached regarding a ceasefire or cessation of hostilities. The talks took place shortly after Ukraine conducted a high-profile drone strike deep into Russian territory. Russia continues to reject international calls, including from U.S. President Donald Trump, for an immediate ceasefire.
While the return of war dead and prisoner exchange mechanisms mark incremental progress, the core political and territorial disputes remain unresolved. Both sides have committed to continuing dialogue, though no date for a third round of talks has been announced.
