Zelensky: Ukraine has returned 49 military and civilian personnel from captivity, including defenders of Azovstal.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that 49 Ukrainians have returned from captivity in Russia as a result of an exchange. He made this announcement on social media on September 13, 2024.

Among the released are military personnel, police officers, border guards, and civilians. For example, one of those released is Lenia Umerova, who was held hostage by the Russians after her arrival to her sick father. Also among those released are some fighters from the "Azovstal" brigade and Hero of Ukraine - military medic Viktor Ivchuk.

Head of the President's Office Andriy Yermak provided more details about the released: 15 National Guard soldiers, 13 Navy service members, 4 border guards, 6 Armed Forces soldiers, 2 territorial defense fighters, 7 civilians, and 2 police officers. Among them are 23 privates and sergeants and 19 officers.

Head of the "Azov" patronage service, Olena Tolkachova, noted that among the released are 15 service members from the "Azov" brigade, including many women.

President Zelensky thanked everyone who is working towards the release of prisoners and emphasized that the return of all Ukrainians home, both military and civilians, is very important.