Russia and Ukraine began their largest exchange of prisoners of war on Friday, with each side returning 390 soldiers and civilians, according to both governments. More swaps were expected on Saturday and Sunday, as the two countries have committed to exchange 1,000 prisoners each.

As Ukraine and Russia prepare for peace talks scheduled for June 2 in Istanbul, few observers expect a breakthrough. While the U.S. and Ukraine have pushed for an unconditional ceasefire, the Kremlin has rejected it.

Whether or not Moscow was deliberately trying to sow discontent in Ukraine, its failure to release political prisoners whose life is in danger and others illegally imprisoned for years was brutal