Thousands Freed from Russian Captivity

In a significant announcement during an online address at the “Together for Return” conference, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that over the past four years, the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War has successfully facilitated the return of 8,669 individuals from Russian captivity. This group includes both military personnel and civilians, some of whom had been detained for a decade or longer due to ongoing conflicts.

The Coordination Headquarters commemorated its fourth anniversary with this conference, highlighting its pivotal role in these complex operations. President Zelenskyy expressed profound gratitude towards the multiple facets of the Ukrainian defense mechanism and supportive civilians who have played essential roles in these efforts. Entities acknowledged include the military branch of the Defense Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense, the Security Service, the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine, and the Ombudsman. The President also thanked international partners, journalists, civic leaders, and human rights defenders for keeping the plight of prisoners in the public eye and aiding in the negotiation processes.

Emphasizing the broader community’s role, President Zelenskyy highlighted the enduring spirit of Ukrainian families and citizens who continue to support each other during these challenging times. His address not only marked the successes achieved by the Coordination Headquarters but also celebrated the resilience and unity of the Ukrainian people in the face of prolonged adversity.