Istanbul
Ukraine has returned from Russian captivity a group of wounded and seriously ill defenders, most of whom are officers, and some are under 25 years old. This became possible thanks to agreements in Istanbul.
The President of Ukraine called the Russian Federation's ceasefire proposal an ultimatum. He emphasized that Russia's conditions do not comply with the Constitution and the desires of Ukrainians.
The SBU announced the return of the bodies of dead soldiers, for the first time involving special wagons of Ukrzaliznytsia for quick delivery for identification. Repatriation became possible thanks to the cooperation of many departments.
The SBU published a video of the prisoner exchange on June 12, emphasizing that it is the result of the work of a large team led by Zelenskyy. As part of the exchange, seriously wounded and seriously ill soldiers returned home, including those who were missing.
Defenders of various military branches, including those who were considered missing, have returned to Ukraine. The oldest released is 59 years old, and the youngest is 22.
The bodies of fallen servicemen were returned to Ukraine today as a result of the joint work of many state structures. The SBU thanked the Red Cross for assistance in repatriation.
A group of soldiers with amputations, vision problems and other serious health problems have been returned to Ukraine. They will be provided with all the necessary medical assistance and rehabilitation.
The first stage of the exchange of prisoners took place, among whom were seriously wounded and seriously ill soldiers of the Armed Forces, the National Guard and other units. All those released need treatment and rehabilitation.
One of the released Ukrainian defenders celebrated his birthday on the day of his return home. This was the best gift for him, said Andriy Yermak.
Russians are calling the families of prisoners of war, posing as employees of bodies allegedly involved in exchanges. The headquarters urges to contact the police.
The Coordination Headquarters announced the preparation of a new stage of the release of Ukrainian prisoners of war. A large exchange is underway, the details of which will be announced later for security reasons.
Another stage of the prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia, agreed upon in Istanbul, has taken place. Soldiers from various units of the Defense Forces have returned home.
The Kremlin is mocking the peace efforts of partners and continuing the war, throwing thousands of soldiers into battle in various directions. Russia strikes Ukraine daily with hundreds of "Shaheds".
Zelenskyy assessed the negotiations with Russia in Istanbul. He emphasized the need for strong mediators and security guarantees for Ukraine.
The exchange of prisoners with Russia has begun and will last for several days. Among those being returned are the wounded, seriously wounded, and people under the age of 25.
Russia has not responded to Ukraine's memorandum on a truce, instead issuing unacceptable ultimatums. Kyiv calls for increased pressure on the Russian Federation through the 18th package of EU sanctions.
Ukraine has returned its defenders from Russian captivity. Among those released are defenders of Mariupol, the wounded, and those who are not yet 25 years old.
As part of the agreements in Istanbul, a prisoner exchange took place, the first group of soldiers under 25 was returned, including the defenders of Mariupol. Work is underway to repatriate the bodies of the dead.
Today, the exchange of prisoners began, which will last for several days. First of all, the wounded, seriously wounded, and those under 25 years old are being returned.
Ukraine is facing information pressure and attempts by Russia to dictate the terms of the exchange. The start of repatriation measures is scheduled for next week.
The Coordination Headquarters stated that the Russian Federation submitted lists for exchange that do not correspond to the agreed categories. Ukraine called on Russia to stop manipulating and return to constructive work.
The Coordination Headquarters stated that the Russian Federation's statements about the start of the exchange of bodies of the dead within the framework of the agreements in Istanbul are not true. Preparations are underway for the exchange of seriously ill people and the bodies of the dead.
The Russian side reports receiving 42 bodies of dead soldiers and transferring 503 bodies to Ukraine. There is currently no information from official Kyiv regarding this exchange.
Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Ukraine's strikes on Russian airfields. He called Zelensky a "hothead" who could lead to World War III.
Russian media reported on a phone call between Putin and Pope Francis, during which the dictator expressed interest in a peaceful settlement, while accusing Ukraine of escalating the conflict and engaging in terrorism.
Andriy Yermak discussed the situation on the front, support for Ukraine and negotiations with Russia with the US Secretary of State in Washington. They also talked about the exchange of prisoners and the return of abducted children.
Zelensky discussed with Mertz the results of the meeting in Istanbul, where the only result was the exchange of prisoners. They also talked about strengthening sanctions due to Russia's refusal to de-escalate.
The Russian delegation stated that it has no authority regarding a ceasefire. Ukraine has proposed a temporary truce until the meeting of leaders in Istanbul, the Vatican, or Switzerland.
Legal representatives of children deported to the Russian Federation will receive a payment of 50,000 hryvnias. The State Service for Children's Affairs will transfer the funds after the child's return.
The Russian Federation has announced its readiness to start exchanging prisoners with Ukraine as early as June 7-9. Also, the Russian Federation is ready to hand over the bodies of Ukrainian soldiers.