Key Facts
• Russia’s invasion of Ukraine marks three and a half years as of August 24, 2025.
• Peace or ceasefire remains unattainable, with no clear resolution in sight.
• Prisoner exchanges are the only active negotiations between the two nations.
• On August 14, 2025, 84 individuals, including civilians, were released in the 67th exchange.
• A bus carrying released prisoners arrived at a hospital in Chernihiv, northern Ukraine.
• Families gathered, some shouting names, hoping their loved ones were among the freed.
• Nine-year-old Kyryl Turkoman reunited with his father Maksym, a marine held captive for 3 years and 4 months.
• Maksym was captured in Mariupol, southeastern Ukraine, during the early stages of the invasion.
• His wife, Anna, expressed disbelief and joy, saying, “It feels like a dream.”
Summary
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has reached three and a half years, with no progress toward peace or a ceasefire. However, prisoner exchanges remain a rare point of active engagement between the two nations. On August 14, 2025, the 67th exchange took place, resulting in the release of 84 individuals, including civilians. Families gathered in Chernihiv, northern Ukraine, to welcome their loved ones, with emotional reunions marking the day. Among them was nine-year-old Kyryl Turkoman, who reunited with his father Maksym, a marine held captive for over three years. Maksym’s wife, Anna, described the moment as surreal, reflecting the prolonged hardship endured by families of prisoners. While these exchanges bring relief to some, the broader conflict shows no signs of resolution.
