Ukraine Commemorates Tortured Citizens

In a solemn ceremony held on July 28, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine inaugurated the Day of Remembrance for Ukrainians tortured, executed, or who died in captivity. This day honors defenders, members of volunteer formations, and civilians who suffered under Russian captivity.

The event, attended by key government officials and freed captives, highlighted Ukraine’s efforts to secure the release of its citizens. Among the attendees were Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council Rustem Umerov and Minister of Internal Affairs Ihor Klymenko, alongside servicemembers and civilians recently freed from Russian captivity.

President Zelenskyy emphasized the significance of this day for Ukraine’s history, stating, “Starting today, July 28, we will observe a day of great significance for the history of the struggle for Ukraine.” The President praised the ongoing efforts to release captives, noting that 5,857 individuals have been returned through 66 exchanges since the full-scale invasion began.

Discussions during the meeting focused on securing the release of all Ukrainians, supporting freed individuals, and accelerating the identification of deceased victims. Denys Prokopenko, a freed captive, expressed gratitude for the national recognition of the day, underscoring its importance for Ukraine’s cultural memory. The President tasked officials with improving medical examinations, exchange lists, and registers for detained civilians.