185 defenders freed from Russian captivity: details of the exchange.
185 Ukrainian defenders returned from Russian captivity, including soldiers of the Armed Forces, National Guard, and State Border Service. This was reported by the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, noting that 183 of the freed are privates and sergeants, while two are officers. Along with the defenders, 20 civilians were also returned, who will receive the necessary assistance.
Efforts to return defenders
According to inkorr.com: The president emphasized that most defenders had been in captivity since 2022 and were freed thanks to the efforts of the Ukrainian side. In particular, they participated in battles in Mariupol, at the 'Azovstal' plant, and in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone.
The last prisoner exchange
On Ukraine's Independence Day, the 68th prisoner exchange took place, during which military personnel and eight civilian Ukrainians returned home. The Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War reported that the number of Ukrainian defenders freed from Russian captivity and previously considered missing has significantly decreased compared to past years.
The return of 185 Ukrainian defenders from Russian captivity highlights the ongoing efforts to free Ukrainians who are in captivity. It is important to ensure the necessary support and rehabilitation for the returnees so that they can successfully adapt to normal life.
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