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Jul 28, 2023

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An estimated 700 soldiers who defended Mariupol remain in Russian captivity. As prisoner exchanges prove challenging, relatives wait nervously for news. Soldier "Azov" Valery, who was held captive for

An estimated 700 soldiers who defended Mariupol remain in Russian captivity. As prisoner exchanges prove challenging, relatives wait nervously for news.

Soldier "Azov" Valery, who was held captive for almost a year.

KYIV — Around 700 soldiers from the Azov battalion, who defended Mariupol, remain in Russian captivity. The exchange of prisoners of war is difficult, but the state and relatives are fighting for each Ukrainian soldier.

The heartache experienced by those who have lost husbands, sons, and fathers is beyond words. Equally distressing is the situation for those left waiting for their soldiers to return home. Often, they're left in the dark, with no updates on their loved ones' status. The agonizing uncertainty of whether they will ever reunite only amplifies their distress.

Stay up-to-date with the latest on the Russia-Ukraine war, with our exclusive international coverage.

Kateryna (29) and her husband, Azov soldier Valeriy (26) were born in Berdiansk — in the Zaporizhzhia region, currently occupied by Russian troops — where they dated for several years.

Before the war started, she worked as a cook, and he was a waiter in a neighboring restaurant.In 2016, he was called up for military service. He served for two years. When he returned in 2018, the young couple got married. At the same time, Valeriy decided to join the Azov.