Ukraine returned 197 defenders from Russian captivity, - Zelensky.

Ukraine returned 197 of its defenders from Russian captivity

President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that Ukraine has ensured the return of 197 of its defenders who were in Russian captivity. Of this number, 175 military personnel were released through a prisoner exchange. Another 22 defenders are returning home thanks to measures that are not related to the exchange.

'Among them are seriously wounded individuals and soldiers whom Russia persecuted for fabricated crimes. Those returning will receive medical and psychological assistance,' emphasized Zelensky.

It is noted that this prisoner exchange is one of the largest. Military personnel from various units are returning to Ukraine - the Armed Forces, Naval Forces, National Guard, Territorial Defense Forces, and State Border Guard Service.

The defenders who were in captivity participated in combat operations in various areas of the front, including Mariupol, at 'Azovstal', in Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, Kharkiv, Mykolaiv, Zaporizhzhia, Sumy, and Kursk.

Zelensky also expressed his gratitude to the Ukrainian team that is engaged in finding Ukrainian captives and organizing exchanges. He also expressed gratitude to international partners, particularly the United Arab Emirates, for their assistance in conducting the exchange.

'Ukraine remembers every one of our heroes, and we will definitely bring all our people home,' assured the head of state.