Did Ukraine really refuse to retrieve the bodies of fallen soldiers? Umerov comments

Today, Ukraine completed the first stage of a large-scale prisoner exchange agreed upon in Istanbul. Ukrainian defenders under the age of 25 are already returning home.

This was announced by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov.

"This is a very emotional moment and, at the same time, the result of coordinated efforts by the President, the negotiation team, the defense forces, diplomats, and international partners," Umerov noted.

Under the terms of the Istanbul agreements, the exchange involves the gradual return of the following categories of prisoners of war:

- severely wounded,

- military personnel with serious illnesses,

- young servicemen under the age of 25.

Umerov emphasized that this was just the beginning. Negotiations are ongoing, and the exchange process will continue in the coming days.

Separately, the minister stressed that the painful work of repatriating the bodies of fallen Ukrainian defenders is also underway. According to the agreements, the return of over 6,000 fallen soldiers who gave their lives for the country’s freedom is anticipated.

"We work every day to make the "all for all" formula a reality. Because the state must bring back all of its people—both the living and the fallen," Umerov stated.

He assured that every family and every name is a focus of the state’s efforts.

"Ukraine fights for everyone. And will bring everyone back."