Russia and Ukraine have exchanged prisoners of war, with the swap specifically involving individuals under the age of 25. The details of how many were exchanged or under what conditions aren’t spelled out here, but it’s a rare moment of cooperation amid an otherwise brutal war.

Editor’s Note: Even in the middle of a grinding conflict, small gestures like this matter—especially when young lives are involved. It doesn’t change the bigger picture, but it’s a reminder that human stakes are always part of war, and these swaps can offer fragile hope for families waiting for news. Whether this signals broader diplomacy or is just a one-off remains to be seen.