On July 23, we completed the ninth stage of the military exchange agreed upon in Istanbul.

President Volodymyr Zelensky announced this on Telegram.

Returning home are severely ill and seriously injured defenders. We can now share details – throughout all stages of the recent Istanbul agreements, more than 1,000 of our people have returned. For thousands of families, this is a joy to embrace their loved ones again. Thank you to everyone who worked on this.

The soldiers returning today defended Ukraine on various fronts. Many of them have been in captivity for over three years. All will receive the necessary support and medical care.

It is crucial that exchanges continue and our people are coming home. Thank you to everyone who continues this vital work. Bringing all of our people back is a priority for the state. We will keep striving to ensure that every one of our citizens returns from captivity.