In Ukraine, those held in pre-trial detention on political charges are being offered to agree to an exchange to Russia – source

On the eve of what is expected to be the largest prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia under the “1000 for 1000” formula, Ukrainian pre-trial detention centers (SIZOs) have begun summoning detainees charged with crimes such as state treason, separatism, collaborationism, and similar offenses. They are being offered the opportunity to join the exchange.

This was reported to journalists by sources within legal circles and among suspects facing these charges.

“Yes, they’re pulling everyone out of the political wings and making offers. There are all kinds of people: some agree, some refuse,” said one source.

Those being approached are mostly Ukrainian citizens.

“These include businessmen, underage photographers who took pictures of missile strikes or military sites, car arsonists, pro-Russian ideologues, and people who were simply framed,” the source explained.

Russian citizens make up only a tiny portion of the politically charged cases in the mentioned SIZO.

However, the source clarified that similar outreach occurred before other exchanges, though in most previous cases, very few civilians were actually transferred to Russia.