conflictThursday, September 17, 2026event Sep 192 sources

Russia and Ukraine Exchange 120 Civilians in Ceasefire Deal

On September 19, 2026, Russia and Ukraine exchanged 120 civilians in a coordinated prisoner swap facilitated by international mediators. The move followed weeks of intense negotiations and marked a rare pause in the ongoing conflict. The exchange was confirmed by both parties and is seen as a significant step toward de-escalation.

Russia and Ukraine announced the exchange of 120 civilians, including 60 from each side, at a neutral location in Belarus. The agreement was brokered by the United Nations and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). The released individuals included civilians captured during the war, with some having been held for over two years. The swap was conducted under strict security protocols to ensure the safety of all participants. The exchange was confirmed by both Russian and Ukrainian officials, with Moscow stating it was a "step toward peace" and Kyiv calling it a "necessary humanitarian measure." No significant immediate consequences were reported following the swap, though tensions remain high in the region. The move is expected to be followed by further discussions on broader ceasefire terms.

Timelines

Sources

IndependentLentaSep 19, 07:21 PM
Russia and Ukraine exchanged civilians
IndependentLentaSep 17, 06:50 PM
Russia and Ukraine exchanged civilians