If Ukraine could bring back all its citizens deported by Russia today and right now, it would certainly do so. However, unfortunately, Ukrainian compatriots remain in the hands of a cruel enemy – Russia.
Andrii Yusov, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian Defense Ministry’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR), said this on Ukrainian television, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.
“When there is understandable outrage and expectations [among Ukrainians] for quicker and larger prisoner exchanges, it must always be remembered that our people are in the hands of a brutal enemy – Russia, which attacked Ukraine. If Ukraine had the ability to bring everyone back today, we would certainly do so. However, unfortunately, they are in Putin’s hands. Therefore, we must act carefully, ensuring we do not endanger them, and steadily work to bring them home and improve their conditions while they are still held captive,” Yusov said.
When asked how to show people that the authorities care about the fate of the captives without harming the exchange process, Yusov said that any action helping the world, the international community, and organizations responsible for monitoring compliance with humanitarian law to stay focused on the issue of Ukrainian prisoners is necessary and appropriate.
“However, any activity that could expose additional information about the captives, aid the enemy in manipulating our society, or create narratives favorable to them must be avoided. We must ensure that we are not turned into instruments of Russian propaganda,” Yusov said.
When asked about whether Russia has specific demands or priorities regarding the exchange process, Yusov said that it does and always has.
“It varies from case to case. We won’t publicly disclose these categories right now, but the process is always complex, multilayered, and often goes beyond the established protocols. Even though there are countries assisting us, negotiations are primarily a bilateral process – closed, but most importantly, effective. There have been results, and there will definitely be more,” he said.
According to him, for Ukraine, the lives of all Ukrainians held captive are priceless.
“Objectively, the enemy treats its own citizens with far less care and compassion than Ukraine does toward its people. That is why exchanges are such a complex process – and the numbers involved vary – but our goal remains the same: every Ukrainian must come home. And that will absolutely happen,” Yusov said.
Source: Ukraine wants to bring everyone home: HUR comments on prisoner exchange situation
