10 Russian Servicemen Returned in Prisoner Swap via Belarus

Ten Russian servicemen have been returned to their side as part of a prisoner exchange with Ukraine, with the handover taking place in Belarus. Russia's human rights ombudswoman, Yana Lantratova, confirmed the development on Wednesday, noting that the deal was part of the August 24 exchange that also saw Ukrainian prisoners return home.

Video footage from the Gomel region showed the servicemen being greeted by officials and receiving medical attention. One of the men, whose name was not disclosed, expressed his relief at being free after nearly a year in captivity. "I really want to get home as soon as possible and see my loved ones, my family," he said, thanking the doctors and everyone who assisted them.

Another serviceman spoke warmly of his reception in Belarus, thanking President Alexander Lukashenko personally. He recounted how his daughter had given him a keepsake before his deployment, saying, "Dad, you took it, you'll bring it back."

Irina Kostevich, chairperson of the commission of the House of Representatives of the Belarus National Assembly, was also present to greet the men. She highlighted the role Belarus played in facilitating the exchange, stating that the border "does not hinder us, rather, it helps us resolve issues that are very complex yet crucial for people."

According to Belarusian media, the servicemen received treatment at a hospital in the Gomel region before continuing their journey back to Russia.