On Ukrainian Independence Day, more than 100 prisoners of war were exchanged with Russia, in a testament to ongoing tensions between the two countries and Ukraine’s pursuit of liberation. This event marked a significant diplomatic action that could potentially lead to future negotiations and discussions on conflict resolution. The POW swap is seen as a humanitarian gesture albeit amid political tensions. It is also a confirmation of both countries’ commitment to the Minsk Agreements, protocols aimed at ending the war in the Donbass region initiated by Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014. Ukrainian Independence Day is an important national holiday celebrating the country’s independence gained in 1991 from the Soviet Union.
