February 24, 2025: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has proposed a comprehensive prisoner exchange with Russia as a first step toward ending the ongoing conflict between the two nations. Speaking at a summit in Kyiv on the third anniversary of Russia's invasion, Zelenskyy called for the release of all Ukrainian prisoners, stating that Ukraine is ready to reciprocate by exchanging "all for all."

"Russia must release Ukrainians. Ukraine is ready to exchange all for all, and this is a fair way to start," Zelenskyy said, emphasizing that 2025 should mark the beginning of lasting peace in Ukraine.

His statement comes amid growing diplomatic efforts to find a resolution to the war. European Union leaders gathered in Kyiv in a show of solidarity, with 13 leaders attending in person and another 24 joining virtually. Zelenskyy expressed hope that their discussions would mark a "turning point" in the conflict.

Meanwhile, Russia has stated that it is open to negotiations but insists that it will only cease hostilities when a settlement aligns with Moscow’s interests. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov claimed that while the Kremlin is in talks with the United States, European nations are pushing for the war to continue. Lavrov also urged Washington to appoint a representative for potential peace talks, citing his recent "positive" discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Saudi Arabia.

Zelenskyy’s announcement comes at a time of heightened tensions with former US President Donald Trump, who has criticized Ukraine’s handling of the war. Trump has called for an immediate peace deal, blaming Zelenskyy for allowing the conflict to persist. He has even gone as far as labeling the Ukrainian leader a "dictator" and warning that he must "move fast" or risk losing his country.

In response, Zelenskyy dismissed Trump’s remarks, stating that the former president is influenced by Russian disinformation. The tensions between the two leaders have raised concerns in European capitals about Trump’s stance on Ukraine and his administration’s renewed engagement with Moscow.

As diplomatic negotiations continue, the success of Zelenskyy’s proposed prisoner exchange remains uncertain. However, his call for "all for all" signals a potential opening for renewed peace efforts in the war-torn region.