Ukraine сelebrates return of 95 prisoners of war

On July 17, Ukraine marked the homecoming of 95 of its citizens, including military personnel from the Armed Forces, National Guard, and border units.

Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude to the United Arab Emirates for their role in mediating the prisoner exchange. “We extend our sincere appreciation to our team and to the UAE for their critical involvement in securing this release,” said the president, adding Ukraine will continue their effort to ensure the safe return of all its citizens.

Ukrainian officials promised that t he freed Ukrainian soldiers will get all due care including medical assessments and rehabilitation.

According to the Coordination Headquarters for Prisoner Affairs, the 95 returnees include:

• 49 members of the Ukrainian Armed Forces
• 21 National Guard members
• 10 Navy sailors
• Seven members of the Territorial Defense Forces
• Five border guards
• Two workers from the State Special Transport Service
• One volunteer

Among those welcomed back are 23 soldiers who defended the city of Mariupol, with thirteen directly involved in the defense of Azovstal. Over the last two years, Ukraine has successfully returned a total of 3,405 captives.