Vatican mediates release of Ukrainian POWs held in Russia for years, returned to Kyiv

In a recent development, a group of individuals were released on Friday, with the Pope acknowledging the Holy See's involvement in past prisoner exchanges during the Ukraine conflict. Among the freed individuals was Nariman Dzhelyal, the deputy head of the Mejlis, a representative body of Crimean Tatars who had been relocated to Kyiv following Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014. Dzhelyal, who had been taken from Crimea a year before the war despite living there post-annexation, highlighted the dire conditions faced by many Ukrainians still in captivity, emphasizing the urgent need for their release. The emotional reunions took place in Kyiv as the former prisoners, draped in blue and yellow flags, embraced their families after enduring years of separation. Isabella Pekh, who had tirelessly campaigned for her mother's release from detention in Donetsk, expressed her relief and gratitude for the support she received during the challenging period. Pope Francis and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy both made appeals for the release of all prisoners of war, with Zelenskyy expressing his appreciation for the efforts that led to the liberation of the individuals. The ongoing conflict has seen a significant number of Ukrainian prisoners being held by Russia, with 3,310 individuals already released since the full-scale invasion. The coordinated efforts of various parties, including the Ukrainian Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War, have played a crucial role in securing the freedom of these individuals. The report was contributed by Associated Press reporter Giada Zampano from Rome, Italy, shedding light on the complexities and human stories intertwined with the conflict and the quest for peace and reunification.