The operation to rescue of 2,500 defenders of Mariupol was the only possible option to save the lives of our Heroes. There was no alternative such as extraction. There was a choice: a rescue operation or death at Azovstal, first of all, of the warriors who had been seriously wounded, because the supplies of the necessary medicines were running out.

The seriously wounded servicemen were the first we managed to bring back to Ukraine during the POW swap in June: 144 people, of which 95 were Mariupol Defenders. Most of them had sustained serious wounds. As of now, they have received the required medical assistance and underwent rehabilitation.

All government institutions are working to return the Heroes of Mariupol and all Ukrainians held captive by the enemy. The Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War continues to work 24/7 to liberate Ukrainian defenders from captivity and to search persons who went missing under special circumstances.

We also maintain contact with the families of captured servicemen and fulfil our obligations to ensure their social protection.

Meanwhile, russia does not fulfil its commitments, neglects agreements, and fails to recognize international norms and rules of warfare. Due to this, the issue of prisoner exchange remains complex and sensitive.

On its part, Ukraine constantly extends public communication with partners, appealing to international organizations and world leaders, drawing the world’s attention to what the enemy is doing with Ukrainian military personnel who are in captivity.

We call on the whole civilized world to prevent the sham trial of Ukrainian defenders in Mariupol, which was announced by the executioners.

We demand that representatives of the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross be immediately sent to the sites where Ukrainian POWs are held, first of all – Olenivka.