The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has once again demonstrated its significant role in international peace efforts by successfully mediating a third prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine.
This development highlights the UAE’s commitment to resolving conflicts through diplomacy and peaceful means.
The Russian Ministry of Defense announced that, through UAE mediation, 100 Russian soldiers previously held in Ukraine have been released. In a reciprocal move, an equivalent number of Ukrainian prisoners were returned to Kyiv. The ministry confirmed that the repatriated Russian soldiers would be transported to Moscow to receive medical care and psychological support in Defense Ministry facilities.
This latest prisoner exchange follows two previous successful mediations by the UAE. The first, on January 31, saw the return of 195 Russian soldiers from Ukraine. The second, on January 3, marked the largest exchange since the conflict began, with approximately 448 prisoners swapped, including 248 Russian soldiers and over 200 Ukrainian soldiers and civilians.
The UAE’s role as a mediator reflects its strong diplomatic relationships with both Russia and Ukraine, bolstered by regular high-level communications. These efforts have been pivotal in facilitating some of the largest prisoner exchanges since the onset of the conflict.
The UAE Foreign Ministry has reiterated the nation’s dedication to fostering a peaceful resolution in Ukraine. This stance is part of the UAE’s broader humanitarian approach to international conflicts, including support for those affected in the Arab world, notably in Gaza.
Following the outbreak of military operations in Gaza between Israel and Hamas in October, the UAE promptly initiated efforts to cease hostilities and delivered thousands of tons of aid to the Palestinian people. This included sending 141 aid-laden aircraft to Gaza through El Arish International Airport, a cargo ship with 4,016 tons of humanitarian supplies, 121 trucks with medical and food supplies, and setting up a 160-bed field hospital as part of “Operation Gallant Knight 3,” directed by Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, in early November.
In its continuous endeavor to halt the Israeli aggression on Gaza, the UAE has been active in the Security Council and through various international organizations, advocating for a ceasefire and the provision of urgent medical and humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian people.
Beyond the Middle East, the UAE has responded to other global crises, such as supporting the Libyan people with an air bridge following Hurricane Daniel in September.
Additionally, in response to the earthquake in Morocco in September, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan directed the establishment of an air bridge to transport relief aid to those affected in the Kingdom of Morocco.
The UAE’s ongoing efforts in conflict mediation, humanitarian aid, and support for peace processes, such as in the Yemeni crisis, underline its significant role on the global stage in promoting peace, aiding those affected by conflicts and natural disasters, and supporting legitimate aspirations for development and prosperity across the world.
The UAE’s consistent efforts in mediating conflicts and providing humanitarian aid underscore its commitment to promoting peace and supporting affected communities worldwide, from conflict zones to areas struck by natural disasters.