In regard to prisoners of war, Moscow proceeds from the fact that the optimal formula for exchange is all for all. This is what Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Maria Zakharova told reporters today.

In response to the question if Russia has data regarding the number of Armenian captives in Azerbaijan, Zakharova stated the following: “The sides have varying positions on this issue. The data vary significantly. The figures that the official Yerevan takes as a basis, change on a regular basis. Moscow receives other information from Baku. Taking into consideration the significant differences, we recommend addressing the sides directly.”

According to Zakharova, as of today, a total of 79 people (63 on the Armenian side, 16 on the Azerbaijani side) have been returned through the mediation of Russian peacekeepers. “Once again, Moscow would like to stress its position in this regard. We proceed from the fact that the best way of exchange is all for all. We believe the speedy solution to this issue will allow the sides to turn the pages of the tragedies over and focus on advancing the positive agenda,” she said.