The Main Intelligence Directorate is preparing the next operations for the return of captured Ukrainians
Andriy Yusov, representative of the Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense, on the air of the telethon reported, that after the large-scale exchange of prisoners on the eve of Easter, preparations for the next operations for the return of Ukrainian citizens are already underway.
Yusov recalled that since the beginning of the full-scale war, more than 5,000 Ukrainians were returned home as part of exchanges, and more than 500 were returned outside the exchange process. A total of 63 separate operations took place.
“I can say that the next operations to return our people are already being prepared,” – noted the representative of the HUR.
Yusov emphasized that the exchange before Easter became one of the largest during the entire time of the full-scale war. According to him, this operation required considerable preparation, and its terms were repeatedly changed. It was Easter that became an additional stimulus for the implementation of the exchange, as a result of which 276 defenders and one defender returned to Ukraine.
According to Yusov, the return of 277 Ukrainians is a significant achievement and evidence of the need for further efforts to return both prisoners of war and civilians. He added that the negotiation process is difficult, but does not stop for a single day.
“The negotiation group is working and we are seeing the results. It is not an easy job, most things remain off the record. But I want to thank everyone involved. Separately – the UAE, which helps and performs a mediating function. Also – to the families of the defenders, who did not just wait, but fought. Thank you for your understanding and patience to all those who were able to speak and withhold some information or refrain from emotions, and when necessary – on the contrary, to strengthen Ukraine’s position for the return of ours.”, – explained Yusov.
It will be recalled that on April 19, an exchange of prisoners took place between Ukraine and Russia through the mediation of the United Arab Emirates. 277 Ukrainian servicemen returned to the Motherland.
