Today, on January 31, an exchange of prisoners took place between Ukraine and Russia. 207 Ukrainians have returned home.
"Our people are home. 207 guys. We bring them back despite everything. We remember everyone in captivity. Soldiers and civilians. We must bring them all back. We are working on it," wrote the president.
As reported by the head of the Office of the President, Andriy Yermak, among those returning home are soldiers from the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the National Guard, the State Border Guard Service, as well as the National Police. Among the soldiers are defenders of Mariupol who were at "Azovstal," Snake Island, and those who fought on various fronts.
The 50th exchange of prisoners took place today, as stated by the Commissioner of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine for Human Rights, Dmytro Lubinets.
"The guys who, after a long time, heard the voices of their loved ones today were overflowing with emotions. The families waiting for their fathers, sons, and brothers also reacted emotionally to the phone calls," noted Lubinets, adding that the soldiers can now look forward to rest and rehabilitation.
According to the data from the Coordination Headquarters for the treatment of prisoners of war, among the rescued servicemen are:
- 95 soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine;
- 56 National Guard members;
- 26 border guards;
- 29 members of the Territorial Defense;
- 1 representative of the National Police.
180 soldiers who returned home are from the rank and file and sergeant's staff, while 27 are Ukrainian officers. The oldest among the released soldiers is 61 years old, and the youngest will soon turn 21. Unfortunately, 36 of the prisoners of war have injuries or serious illnesses.