This was announced by Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine Iryna Vereshchuk on STB TV channel.

“We are trying to find common ground with the russians on this issue, including the exchange of border guards from Zmiynyi Island. But there is a problem. The occupiers have a bad habit of taking civilians hostage – she said. – Their release is a separate issue”.

According to Vereshchuk, russia insists on parity during the talks. Like, border guards have to be exchanged to border guards, sailors – to sailors and so on.

There is a logical question arises: who will we exchange on our mayors, who are already fourteen hostages?

“Currently, this issue is being resolved at the international level” – Iryna Vereshchuk explained, adding that “the Red Cross is mediating the talks. But here, again, not without nuances. In Ukraine, its representatives have access to russian prisoners. In russia to ours – no. However, the Red Cross is silent about it for some reason” – the official said.