Vladimir Medinsky, Moscow's chief negotiator for the Ukraine conflict, has announced the return of the bodies of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers to Kiev. The total number of remains repatriated by Russia amounts to 6,060, according to the presidential aide's update on Telegram.
The exchange also involved Kiev returning the bodies of 78 slain Russian soldiers. This agreement was reached during direct talks between Moscow and Kiev, which were hosted by Türkiye in June. At the time, Medinsky's Ukrainian counterpart, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, indicated that Kiev would reciprocate with a similar number of deceased Russian troops.
In April, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky stated in an interview that Ukraine had suffered losses of up to 100,000 troops since the escalation of the conflict in 2022. Russian Defense Ministry estimates suggest that Kiev's losses are significantly higher, with a substantial portion of the total casualties occurring in 2024.
The handover of military remains faced initial challenges when Kiev reportedly refused to accept the first batch on June 7. Ukrainian officials cited Russia's perceived haste as the reason, although the exchange commenced the following day and continued throughout the subsequent week.
Currently, Kiev is implementing mandatory conscription for men aged 25 and older to replenish its armed forces. The government is also considering allowing men over 60 to be eligible for military service. This mobilization effort has been hampered by widespread draft avoidance and allegations of corruption within the military recruitment system.
4 Comments
Africa
The fact that there’s even an agreement on repatriation signals potential for future talks. Let’s hope for peace.
Bermudez
Repatriating remains is a sign of humanity in the midst of war. It's important to honor the dead on both sides.
ZmeeLove
Even in turmoil, finding opportunity for negotiations must be celebrated. I hope this is a first step toward peace.
Coccinella
These negotiations, although grim, demonstrate that dialogue is still possible, even in dire circumstances.