Ukrainian journalist returns home after over three years in Russian captivity

In August 2025, a Ukrainian journalist named Dmytro Khilyuk, who had been detained by Russian authorities for over three years, was finally released during a prisoner exchange between Moscow and Kyiv. Khilyuk, alongside other prisoners, was part of a broader negotiation that exchanged Ukrainian military personnel and civilians for Russian servicemen. He and his father, Vasyl, were apprehended by Russian troops while attempting to acquire basic supplies in their village of Kozarovychi during the occupation. For years, Khilyuk's family faced uncertainty regarding his whereabouts, as Russian officials provided conflicting information about his detention. The situation for Khilyuk's family was dire. His parents received minimal communication — a single handwritten note from him stating he was “alive and well” — and were left without knowledge of his true condition for a lengthy period. The emotional toll of uncertainty weighed heavily on his parents as they endured months of worry and anguish. The release was celebrated as a moment of hope for many families of detainees in Russia, as the prisoner exchange reflected ongoing efforts on both sides to resolve captivity issues amid the ongoing conflict. The exchange also included the release of other civilians and military personnel, with reports indicating that approximately 16,000 Ukrainian civilians may still be held in Russian custody, implying that significantly more work needs to be done to secure the release of those still detained. The complexity of the situation is underscored by the ambiguous status of many individuals held. Many are reported to be unfairly imprisoned without any charges filed against them, highlighting a disturbing interpretation of international law by Russian authorities. This recent release brought a sense of relief yet underscored the ongoing struggles faced by families of many more still imprisoned. Perspectives on the release vary widely among the public and officials, with officials such as Andriy Yermak acknowledging the emotional rollercoaster families experience. Khilyuk's return is regarded as a poignant reminder of the far-reaching consequences of the conflict, not just in terms of military engagements, but in the lives of individuals and families caught in geopolitical strife.