On October 23, 2026, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that 270 Ukrainians have returned home from Russian captivity. This is an important step in Ukraine's ongoing efforts to bring its citizens back.
Who has returned home?
Among those released are representatives from various military units and civilians:
- National Guard, including fighters from Azov,
- Border guards,
- Territorial defense forces,
- Navy,
- Ground forces,
- Airborne Assault Forces,
- State Special Transport Service,
- Nine civilians.
Most of these individuals had been in captivity since 2022, during the fierce battles for Mariupol.
Circumstances of the return
Among those released are five individuals who were believed to have died during the Russian terrorist attack in Olenivka in July 2022. Many of those who returned had been illegally sentenced in Russia, highlighting the severity of the situation faced by Ukrainian military personnel and civilians during the war.
Efforts for exchange
President Zelensky expressed gratitude to everyone working on the exchanges, emphasizing that Ukraine continues to search for all its citizens. He also highlighted the importance of the work of Ukrainian soldiers at the front, who replenish the exchange fund to bring back their comrades.
This exchange serves as another testament to the resilience of the Ukrainian people and their commitment to bring home everyone fighting for Ukraine's freedom and independence.