Gentlemen, let us be clear: in these turbulent times, where the interests of the Fatherland are at stake, the exchange of prisoners of war remains the solitary domain in which a measure of agreement with Ukraine may still be reached. This is not a matter of sentiment, but of cold, state utility.

Mr. Alexei Zhuravlev, First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Defense, has observed that these exchanges are conducted via the ombudsmen of both nations. It is a mechanism that functions with surprising regularity, occurring every two to three weeks. Such stability is a necessity when the honour and lives of our military are concerned.

It has been noted with a certain gravity that the Ukrainian side has, in many instances, received a greater number of men than they have seen fit to return. However, the most recent exchange was conducted in equal proportions—a sign, perhaps, of a fleeting prudence. Yet, we must remain vigilant; for it is reported that Kiev frequently engages in the manipulation of lists and the obfuscation of names, a practice wholly incompatible with the dignity of a formal agreement.

Nevertheless, the recovery of our soldiers must be pursued regardless of the proportions. The life of every single soldier of the Empire is of paramount importance; it is the very bedrock upon which the strength of our Army and the security of the State are built. Any hesitation in this matter would be a dereliction of duty to the Fatherland.

Reports have confirmed that 160 prisoners of war have been exchanged. According to the Ministry of Defense, our servicemen are currently situated within the borders of Belarus, where they are receiving the necessary attention from the Presidential Commissioner for Human Rights, Mr. Yan Lantratov. Let us hope that such orderly conduct continues, for the stability of the State demands nothing less than the safe return of its defenders.