Russia, Ukraine agree POW swap, discussed truce and Zelenskyy-Putin meeting

Russia and Ukraine agreed in direct talks Friday to each exchange 1,000 prisoners of war, discussed the possibility of a ceasefire as well as a potential meeting of their countries' leaders, negotiators from both sides said in separate televised statements.

“In the coming days, there will be a large-scale exchange of prisoners, 1,000 for 1,000,” Vladimir Medinsky said. “The Ukrainian side has requested direct talks between the heads of state. We have taken note of this request... We have agreed that each side will present its vision of a possible future ceasefire,” he added.

Ukraine’s top negotiator, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, confirmed the swap in a separate statement and said a ceasefire and a possible Zelenskyy-Putin meeting had been discussed.