45 Ukrainian defenders returned from Russian captivity

Today, on May 6, as a result of the exchange, an additional 45 Ukrainian Defenders have been successfully liberated from captivity. This was reported by the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War.

Among those returning home, there are 42 Defenders and three Defenders of 'Azovstal' from the National Guard of Ukraine (NGU). Ten of the servicemen are officers, and 35 are non-commissioned officers and enlisted personnel.

Many of the released servicemen today have injuries and serious health issues. In Ukraine, they will receive all the necessary assistance, undergo rehabilitation, and receive all social payments and appropriate financial support.

The enemy attempted to hold trials over some of the Defenders for defending their own land. In violation of all international humanitarian law requirements, Ukrainian servicemen were threatened with lengthy imprisonment.

Among the liberated individuals is a participant in the legendary 'helicopter' mission of the General Intelligence Directorate (GUR) of the Ministry of Defense for evacuating the wounded from 'Azovstal.' The evacuation helicopter he was in was shot down, but the warrior managed to survive. Severely wounded, he faced the so-called 'trial.' Now, the serviceman will undergo a course of treatment and rehabilitation.

A young couple who got married at 'Azovstal' has returned from captivity, along with a medic who had previously been in captivity by the Russians after the Shyrokyne operation (2015). He spent over two years in captivity, and after his release, he returned to military service. He ended up in captivity again while defending Mariupol and 'Azovstal' from invaders.

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