Russia Uses Azov Prisoners as Propaganda Tool, Says Rights Advocate—POW Swap's Biggest Hurdle Revealed.

Human Rights Defender Borys Zakharov Weighs In

According to Espreso.tv: According to human rights defender Borys Zakharov, Russia's refusal to release captured soldiers from the Azov unit stems from their value as a propaganda asset—a core obstacle in prisoner exchange efforts. Zakharov highlighted the international People First campaign, which seeks to secure the release of these detainees. He stressed that Moscow is unwilling to let them go because they serve as a centerpiece of Russian disinformation narratives.

The People First Initiative

On June 5, Ukraine successfully brought home 33 fighters from the 1st Corps of the National Guard's Azov unit. However, only two defenders of Mariupol were among those returned. The People First initiative frames the detention of these individuals as hostage-taking, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

Zakharov noted that Russian authorities are portraying Azov prisoners as an 'enemy image,' which further complicates release efforts. He emphasized that this is a global campaign backed by international human rights organizations. Ukraine has received support on this matter from the Turkish government and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan personally.

Countries with potential influence on the negotiation process include:

• Turkey
• United Arab Emirates
• Brazil
• South Africa

The involvement of these nations could prove decisive in securing the freedom of Azov prisoners, who remain in a precarious situation.

The broader conflict in Ukraine is reflected in the plight of Azov detainees, where human rights and humanitarian issues have become critically important. International backing—particularly from Turkey and other states—may help resolve the problem, though complex negotiations and political interests continue to pose challenges. The People First campaign, which underscores the urgent need for prisoner release, could play a key role in drawing global attention to these concerns.