189 Ukrainian soldiers return to Ukraine in POWs exchange
Source: Volodymyr Zelensky
On Monday, 189 Ukrainian soldiers have been released from Russian captivity and came back to Ukraine in another successful prisoner exchange, according to the country’s president.
“Bringing our people back from Russian captivity is always great news for every one of us. Today is one of those days: our team managed to return 189 Ukrainians home,” Zelensky said in a statement.
The freed individuals include soldiers who fought at Azovstal, Mariupol, Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant, Snake Island, and various other frontlines. Among those released are members of the National Guard, Azov Regiment, border guards, Territorial Defense, Navy, Armed Forces, and two civilians who were captured in Mariupol.
“Each of them has loved ones waiting at home. It’s a joy that we were able to bring them back. Today, 189 families are celebrating. We are working to free every Ukrainian still in Russian captivity. This is our goal, and we will not forget anyone. I thank the team that makes these returns possible and all partners, especially the UAE, who help us in this mission,” Zelensky added.
The news initially came from Dmytro ‘Diplomat’ Andryushchenko, an Azov Brigade officer, who wrote: “I welcome Ukraine’s defenders home, including comrades from our 12th Azov Brigade, military unit 3057. It may not be many, but I am truly happy for each one”.
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