Russia, Ukraine swap prisoners

Russia and Ukraine on Monday exchanged 150 prisoners from each side, who were captured during their ongoing conflict, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Monday.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Monday on Telegram that 189 Ukrainians returned home, including servicemen and two civilians captured in Mariupol.

Among those released were 187 servicemen, including officers, soldiers and sergeants, along with two civilians, Zelensky wrote in his post.

The freed troops included military personnel who fought for the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, the city of Mariupol and the Snake Island in the Black Sea, he added.

The United Arab Emirates provided mediation efforts for the military swap. In a statement, the UAE Foreign Ministry said Monday's swap marks the 10th successful exchange of Russian and Ukrainian captives mediated by the UAE in 2024.

The ministry emphasized the country's role as a reliable mediator, reiterating its dedication to pursuing peaceful solutions to the Ukraine conflict and addressing its humanitarian consequences, including assistance for refugees and captives.

Russia and Ukraine have conducted 59 prisoner exchanges to date, according to the Coordinating Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War.

Nearly three years into the conflict, Ukraine vowed to keep fighting even if the incoming U.S. administration suspends military aids. 

Ukraine's President's Office head Andriy Yermak said on Monday that "We will continue to fight, work with the new (U.S.) administration, and develop domestic production." 

He acknowledged the risk of reduced U.S. support and emphasized that Ukraine would strengthen its ties with Europe if such a cut occurs.

Yermak said that Ukraine's performance on the frontline will significantly influence the position of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's administration regarding the aid.

On Monday, U.S. President Joe Biden announced $2.5 billion in additional security assistance for Ukraine. But many questioned whether Trump would suspend the aid. 

During the presidential campaign, Trump questioned the level of U.S. involvement in the conflict, suggesting European allies should bear more of the financial burden.

Since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the U.S. has provided Ukraine with about $61.4 billion in military assistance as of mid-December, according to the U.S. Department of State.

(With input from agencies)