Significant Step in the Return of Ukrainian Defenders from Captivity

A significant step in the return - Ukraine reclaims its heroes who have suffered severe injuries.

Today, the first stage of prisoner exchange in the category of “severely injured” has been completed.

According to agreements reached in Istanbul, the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War, under the direction of the President of Ukraine, returned a group of defenders from Russian captivity who have sustained serious injuries and health issues.

Back to their homeland are the soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, including representatives from the Navy, Ground Forces, Territorial Defense, Airborne Troops, SBS, Border Guard, and National Guard.

Among the liberated defenders are those who fought in Mariupol, who spent more than 3 years in captivity. The release included not only soldiers and sergeants but also officers.

All released today have severe injuries and serious illnesses: amputated limbs, vision problems, abscesses, infections, shrapnel wounds, and chronic diseases. Some of the released have been diagnosed with hepatitis and tuberculosis.

The returned defenders will be taken to medical centers for necessary examinations and further treatment. They will receive required assistance, have their documents restored, and compensation for their time in captivity will be provided.

The prisoner exchange continues. For security reasons, the exact number of released individuals will be announced after the completion of the exchange process.

The Coordination Headquarters remains active and will soon carry out the next stage of releasing Ukrainian prisoners.

We are working on bringing everyone back!

Glory to Ukraine!