**Ukraine Begins Return of Wounded Soldiers from Russian Captivity**
In a major breakthrough, Ukraine has started the process of returning severely wounded and ill soldiers from Russian captivity. The first stage of this historic exchange took place on June 10, 2025, as announced by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on his Telegram channel.
This development marks a significant step towards releasing thousands of Ukrainian soldiers who have been held captive by Russia for an extended period. According to estimates, around 8,000 Ukrainian soldiers are being detained in Russian prisons, while another 60,000 Ukrainians are considered missing and may also be held captive.
**A New Chapter in the Ongoing Conflict**
President Zelenskyy emphasized that this exchange is part of agreements reached in Istanbul, signaling a renewed effort to resolve the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The Ukrainian president stressed that the first stage of bringing home severely wounded and injured warriors from Russian captivity has begun, with all of them requiring urgent medical assistance.
**The Human Toll**
Among those freed are defenders from various branches of the Defense Forces, including some who had been held in Russian captivity for over three years. Many of these soldiers suffer from serious injuries and chronic illnesses, such as amputated limbs, abscesses, infections, shrapnel wounds, vision problems, hepatitis, and tuberculosis.
**Reintegration and Support**
Once returned, all released Ukrainian defenders will be transported to medical facilities for full examinations, treatment, rehabilitation, documentation recovery, and compensation for the time spent in captivity. Ukraine’s Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War has emphasized that efforts to free Ukrainian captives are ongoing, with the next stages of the exchange already being prepared.
**A Glimmer of Hope**
This development offers a glimmer of hope for families of Ukrainian soldiers who have been waiting anxiously for news about their loved ones. As Ukraine continues to navigate this complex and challenging conflict, the return of wounded soldiers from Russian captivity marks an important step towards healing and reintegration.
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