Ukraine Receives 1,200 Bodies of Soldiers from Russia After Drone Attacks

Kyiv, June 7, 2025 – Ukraine has received the bodies of 1,200 fallen soldiers from Russia, in a somber transfer organized by the International Red Cross, officials in Kyiv confirmed on Friday. This marks the second such repatriation this week, following a similar exchange on Wednesday when 1,212 bodies were returned to Ukraine.

According to Ukrainian authorities, 27 Russian bodies were also handed over to Moscow during the earlier exchange.

Red Cross-Mediated Transfer Amid War Zone Tensions

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) facilitated the coordination, as part of ongoing humanitarian efforts between the two nations. The organization has taken an increasingly critical role in handling prisoner and casualty exchanges amidst the prolonged conflict.

The latest return of remains comes after both sides met in Istanbul earlier this month, where they agreed to a broader plan to exchange over 6,000 deceased soldiers. However, implementation of the deal was delayed due to what Ukrainian officials called "poor coordination" from the Russian side.

Overnight Drone Strikes in Eastern Ukraine

Just hours before the handover, Russian drones launched fresh attacks on eastern Ukraine. The Ukrainian Air Force reported strikes in the Sumy and Donetsk regions, prompting widespread air raid alerts across the east.

Authorities are still assessing the full impact of the drone attacks, which reportedly targeted civilian and military infrastructure. There have been no immediate reports of casualties from the strikes.

More Than Three Years of Conflict

Ukraine is now entering the fourth year of its defense against Russia’s full-scale invasion, which began in February 2022. The war has led to tens of thousands of military and civilian deaths, displacement of millions, and widespread destruction.

Despite battlefield setbacks and intensifying air campaigns, Ukraine continues to press for the return of its fallen soldiers. Government officials describe the retrieval of remains as a key humanitarian and national priority, symbolizing dignity and closure for the families affected.

While diplomatic progress between Kyiv and Moscow remains elusive, body exchanges reflect a rare point of agreement amidst a brutal and drawn-out war. With drone strikes continuing to batter eastern Ukraine, humanitarian organizations like the Red Cross remain vital conduits for relief, repatriation, and dialogue.