Official announcements by Ukraine, Russia, or the mediating country; major news outlets

Ten Ukrainians Freed from Russian Captivity on June 25 with Vatican Mediation

Jun 29, 2024, 11:49 AM

Ten Ukrainians, including a politician and two priests, who were held captive by Russia and Belarus have returned home, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The release, which occurred on June 25, was mediated by the Vatican. President Zelenskyy published footage of the released prisoners, who were mostly civilians arrested in occupied territories of Ukraine and Belarus. The released individuals faced severe torture, hunger, and psychological abuse during their captivity, as reported by the United Nations and human rights organizations. Photos of the meeting of the released Ukrainians have been published, showing a warm reception. The two priests had been in captivity for two years. Additionally, it was reported that a Ukrainian soldier died in Russian captivity due to severe torture and starvation.