Parleying with the Devil

More about the book

Focusing on the unique aspect of prisoner exchanges during World War II, the book explores the negotiations between the Third Reich and the communist-led Partisans in Yugoslavia. It highlights the establishment of a neutral zone for regular exchanges, which saved thousands of lives. The analysis reveals how these interactions facilitated secret political discussions, influencing prisoner of war policies and reducing violence in a notoriously brutal conflict. Contrary to some beliefs, the exchanges did not result in collusion against other factions or the Western Allies.