Russia and Ukraine have agreed in principle to a major prisoner-of-war exchange following two days of US-mediated peace talks in Abu Dhabi, offering a rare sign of progress in efforts to end their nearly five-year conflict.
The negotiations concluded on Wednesday without a breakthrough on a broader peace agreement, but both sides indicated that discussions would continue.
US envoy Jared Kushner said the number of prisoners involved would be finalised on Thursday, while a Russian official suggested the exchange could take place within two to three weeks.
American negotiators are now preparing separate meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Major disagreements remain over occupied Ukrainian territory, security guarantees and Europe’s involvement in negotiations.
Meanwhile, fighting continues despite the diplomatic efforts.
For families awaiting news of captured relatives, the proposed exchange offers hope, although no prisoners have yet been released under the new agreement.