Today marked the commencement of the first phase of the prisoner exchange in Ukraine, in line with agreements reached in Istanbul.

The first group of released servicemen, all under the age of 25, has returned home.

This achievement is the result of dedicated efforts by the President of Ukraine, the negotiation team, and the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War.

Among those released are representatives from the Navy, Land Forces, Territorial Defense Forces, Air Force, Assault Troops, Border Guard Service, National Guard, and the State Special Transport Service. All released personnel hold ranks of private and sergeant.

Included in the group of freed defenders are those who defended Mariupol and endured over three years in captivity.

This is just the first part of a large-scale exchange process that will continue as per the agreements made.

This exchange focuses on specific categories of prisoners of war, including individuals under 25, those severely wounded, and seriously ill captives.

Efforts are also ongoing regarding the repatriation of the bodies of Ukrainian soldiers who lost their lives defending the homeland.

The returned defenders will receive all necessary support, including documentation restoration, financial compensation for their time in captivity, a one-time assistance payment, and medical rehabilitation.

The 66th prisoner exchange is currently underway. For security reasons, the final numbers of those released will be announced after the completion of the exchange process.

Ukraine is consistently working towards implementing the "all for all" exchange formula across all categories.