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

The seriously wounded were the first we managed to bring back to Ukraine after the exchange in June: 144 persons, of which 95 were Mariupol defenders. Most of them had serious injuries. As of now, they have received the necessary medical care and underwent rehabilitation.

All state institutions are working to return the Heroes of Mariupol and all Ukrainians held captive by the enemy. The Coordination Staff on treatment of POWs continues to work 24/7 to liberate Ukrainian defenders from captivity and to find 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.

In the meantime, russia does not fulfil its commitments, ignores agreements, and fails to recognize international norms and rules of war. Due to this, the issue of prisoner exchange is complex and sensitive.

On its part, Ukraine constantly enhances communication with our partners, appeals to international organizations and world leaders, draws 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.