Ukraine & Russia Swap 200 Prisoners

0:00Welcome to Sydney News Today, two minutes of news that matter to Sydney. Ukraine and Russia completed the first stage of a prisoner swap, freeing 200 captives from each side. This kicks off a larger exchange, aiming for 500 prisoners total from both nations. The deal stems from talks held in Geneva last month. Prisoner exchange is standout as rare moments of cooperation in their ongoing conflict. This marks the second such swap this year, following 314 releases back in February. Families on the Ukrainian side express huge relief as loved ones returned after long waits. Footage capture soldiers stepping off buses, draped in flags, and hugging, waiting crowds amid cheers. Among those released were fighters held since 2022, including some from the intense defense of the Azov-style steel plant. The handoff took place in Ukraine's northern Chernihyev region, with help from mediators in the United Arab Emirates and the United States. More prisoners head home on Friday to wrap up the deal.

1:01Meanwhile, wider negotiations seem stuck, as global focus shifts and recent tensions flare over incidents like a sunken gas tanker. The Daily News Now is presented by our sponsor. Your favorite podcasts, music, or sleep sounds coming from your pillow. No earbuds, no distractions, just listen and relax. S-O-L-L-I, solelypillow.com.