In a heartening development, ten Ukrainians long held captive in Russia have finally returned to Kyiv, marking a significant humanitarian breakthrough mediated by the Vatican, as announced by Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday. Among those liberated were individuals like Nariman Dzhelyal, deputy head of the Mejlis, who had been seized from Crimea a year before the conflict erupted, despite living there post-annexation.
The returnees, some detained even before Russia’s invasion, landed at Kyiv International Airport under the cover of night, a poignant moment as the airport reopened for the first time since the onset of hostilities over two years ago. Transported by helicopter and bus, they were warmly greeted in a scene of emotional reunions with loved ones draped in the national colors.
Among them were Isabella Pekh, who had tirelessly campaigned internationally for her mother’s release from Donetsk region’s occupied territories, finally achieving success after six harrowing years. Olena Pekh, an art historian, spoke of her ordeal, expressing profound gratitude for the support that sustained her during captivity.
The group also included clergy, such as Father Bohdan Heleta, seized in 2022 from his church in Berdiansk, underscoring the diverse backgrounds of those held and the broad impacts of their prolonged absence on their communities.
While over 3,310 Ukrainians have been freed thus far, the joyous homecomings highlight the ongoing plight of thousands still detained, both civilians and military personnel, amidst the ongoing conflict.
source: thestar.com
