It has been several years since Ukrainian soldiers who defended Mariupol, including Azovstal, were captured. Despite numerous demonstrations and protests in Kyiv, the situation regarding their release remains unresolved.
Families of the prisoners of war and activists have repeatedly appealed to the Ukrainian government and international organizations to intensify negotiations for a prisoner exchange. However, no tangible progress has been achieved. The soldiers, who heroically defended Mariupol for months, remain in isolation, deprived of freedom and basic rights.
According to their relatives, Ukrainian fighters dream of freedom and returning home. Yet many feel forgotten and abandoned to their fate. The international community, including the UN, the Red Cross, and other organizations, has so far failed to exert sufficient pressure to expedite the exchange process.
This situation raises critical questions about adherence to international humanitarian law, particularly the Geneva Conventions on the rights of prisoners of war. Activists are calling on the global community to increase pressure on the conflicting parties to resolve this tragedy as quickly as possible.
The release of Azovstal’s defenders would not only be an act of justice but also an important step in demonstrating respect for the rights of soldiers who fulfilled their duty in times of war.
