14:30⇢Prisoner Exchange: 175 Soldiers Return to Each Side
⌨Russian media extensively covers a prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine, with multiple sources reporting 175 soldiers returned to each side (Izvestia, NTV, RBC, Rossiyskaya Gazeta, RIA Novosti, TASS). The exchange is described by some outlets as fulfilling Putin's "gesture of goodwill" (Lenta). Meanwhile, Putin has ordered punishment for Ukrainian forces for alleged crimes in Kursk region (Komsomolskaya Pravda). Diplomatic developments include discussions between Russian and U.S. officials about upcoming talks in Riyadh (Kommersant), and reports that a ceasefire could be achieved "within weeks" with potential easing of sanctions against Russia (RT, Vesti).