270 more defenders have been returned to Ukraine from captivity, most of them defenders of Mariupol

Ukraine and Russia carried out the third stage of the 77th prisoner exchange. 270 Ukrainians returned home, most of whom had been in enemy captivity since 2022. This was reported by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky and the Coordination Headquarters for the treatment of prisoners of war.

Among those freed from captivity were National Guard servicemen (including fighters of the Azov Brigade), border guards, territorial defense members, representatives of the Navy, Ground Forces and Airborne Assault Forces, as well as the State Special Transport Service. In addition to military personnel, nine civilians returned home.

Who was able to be returned

According to the Coordination Headquarters, among the released defenders are 38 officers. There are also servicemen who had been in Russian captivity since 2018 and 2020.

Many of these servicemen were illegally "convicted" by the occupation authorities in Russia. In addition, five people who had long been considered killed in the Russian terrorist attack in Olenivka in July 2022 returned home.

Read also: Ukraine and Russia conducted an exchange of civilians: seven Ukrainians returned home

Recall that this exchange is a continuation of the 77th series of exchanges, which began at the end of summer:

On August 19, the first stage took place, during which 103 servicemen were returned.

On August 24, Independence Day, another 10 servicemen who were considered missing in action were freed as part of a special stage.

On the eve of the third stage, there was also an exchange of civilians in a "7 for 7" format.

All those released are currently being provided with necessary medical assistance, they are undergoing rehabilitation and will have the opportunity to meet with their relatives.