The first exchange of prisoners after the Il-76 disaster. "We haven't forgotten anyone"

The Russian Federation's Ministry of Defense announced on Wednesday that they had recovered 195 soldiers. In turn, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine announced the recovery of 207 individuals.

President Zelensky stated that nearly half of the recovered prisoners were defenders of Mariupol, including military personnel, members of the National Guard, Border Guard, and Police.

"I am sure that the released prisoners are already calling home to hear the most important words. I am glad that our efforts are bearing fruit", wrote the Ukrainian president on his profile on the X platform. He added that it marked the 50th exchange of prisoners since the full-scale war began in February 2022.

"A total of 3,035 Ukrainians have been returned. And we will make every effort to bring back every person. We have not forgotten anyone", emphasized Zelensky. Alongside information about the prisoner exchange, the President of Ukraine posted photos showing moved soldiers calling their loved ones.

Il-76 plane crash. Volodymyr Zelensky demands an investigation

Wednesday's prisoner exchange was the first since the Il-76 plane crash. According to the Russian side, there were 65 captured Ukrainian soldiers on board, along with six crew members and three accompanying persons. However, the Ukrainian side denied these reports and provided a completely contradictory version.

According to them, the Ukrainian army allegedly fired at a Russian plane transporting missiles for the S-300 air defense system.

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine said he would demand an international investigation into the matter.