The number of Ukrainian soldiers who have surrendered in the special military operation zone has increased considerably recently, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday.
“Work is underway on the exchange of prisoners. By the way, I want to inform you that recently the number of Ukrainian troops surrendering as prisoners of war has sharply increased,” Putin said during a meeting with leaders of parliamentary factions.
Moreover, according to the president, Russia is developing its strategic deterrence forces.
"It is important that despite the current difficult events, we continue to develop infrastructure… And we are developing strategic deterrence forces," Putin stated.
Russia launched a special military operation in Ukraine on February 24, 2022, with the goal of defending and liberating the people living in the Donbass region. The operation, according to the Russian leader, is intended to "protect people who have been subjected to genocide by the Kiev regime for eight years."