Viktor But, a deputy from the Legislative Assembly of the Ulyanovsk Region, stated that he stands ready to offer all necessary assistance to Russians returning home in exchange for an exchange arrangement. His remarks, cited by TASS, emphasize a practical approach to support the reintegration of citizens who come back to Russia.
But added that if any person in need seeks help, he will respond without hesitation. The priority, he said, is to ensure that those returning are not hindered from resuming a normal life and can access timely support as required.
He stressed the importance of creating favorable conditions for a swift and smooth adaptation process, so that returning residents can re-establish themselves with confidence and ease. The focus, in his view, should be on practical measures that reduce friction and remove barriers to reintegration across housing, employment, and social services.
On August 1, Russia and several Western countries participated in a major prisoner exchange coordinated through regional and international channels. In this operation, 26 detainees were moved among facilities in Russia, the United States, Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway, and Belarus. By the end of the swap, 10 individuals, including two minors, had been released and relocated to Russia, 13 to Germany, and 3 to the United States.
Official sources described the exchange as the result of communications among security and intelligence services in both countries. Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson, noted that the dialogue and arrangements involved the agencies responsible for safeguarding state interests, including the FSB on the Russian side and corresponding counterparts abroad. The process highlighted ongoing cooperation between the Russian authorities and international partners in managing sensitive humanitarian and security-related exchanges.
In public commentary, former U.S. leaders and analysts remarked on the exchange as a gesture that could influence diplomatic perceptions and future negotiations. The exchange drew attention to the broader shifts in bilateral relations and the role of mutual concessions within a framework of strategic dialogue.