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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Samya Kullab

Ukraine says Russia handed over at least 20 of its own dead soldiers in recent exchanges

Ukrainians hold photos of their missing relatives during as they watch freed Ukrainian soldiers arrive after a POW exchange with Russia in the Chernyhiv region of Ukraine, Friday, June 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Dan Bashakov) - (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has revealed that Russia has repatriated at least 20 of its own dead soldiers in recent exchanges with Ukraine, describing the unusual occurrence as a sign of Moscow's disorganisation in handling large swaps of wounded prisoners of war and military remains.

Speaking to journalists on Friday Mr Zelenskyy disclosed that an Israeli citizen was among the deceased received by Ukraine. Officials have not yet disclosed the identities of the bodies.

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