**Ukraine and Russia Swap Prisoners, But Azov Fighters Left Out**
In a recent prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia, 1000 prisoners on each side were returned home after a three-day swap. However, the National Guard’s 1st Corps Azov has stated that no members of the 12th Special Operations Brigade Azov were included in the exchange.
**The Siege of Mariupol**
It was in May 2022 that the Russian siege of Azovstal, the last Ukrainian-held stronghold in Mariupol, came to an end. The defenders of Azovstal, including soldiers from the Azov Regiment, had held off Russian forces for 86 days, delaying their advance and allowing Ukraine to organize its national defense. However, after receiving orders from high command, the Azov fighters surrendered and were taken to Russian-controlled territory.
**Most Azov Fighters Still in Captivity**
Since then, some Azov officers and rank-and-file soldiers have returned to Ukraine, but most of the regiment remains in captivity. The Azov statement highlights that over 800 Azov fighters are now in their fourth year of captivity, with many having been held for over three years.
**Statement from National Guard’s 1st Corps Azov**
The National Guard’s 1st Corps Azov welcomed the exchange of prisoners from two other brigades but emphasized that no members of the 12th Brigade Azov were included. The statement reads: “We welcome home every soldier who today returned to their native land. Together we will restore our strength and defend Ukraine with even greater determination.”
**Commentary**
The fact that the prisoner exchange did not include any Azov fighters is a disappointment for many Ukrainians, especially those who suffered under Russian occupation in Mariupol. The bravery of the Azov defenders during the siege of Azovstal was widely recognized, and their continued captivity has been a source of concern.
**Analysis**
The decision to leave out Azov fighters from the prisoner exchange may be seen as a deliberate attempt by Russia to continue exerting pressure on Ukraine and its people. By keeping key figures like those from the 12th Brigade Azov in captivity, Russia may be trying to undermine Ukrainian morale and create divisions within society.
**Conclusion**
The recent prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia has brought some relief to families who have been waiting for their loved ones to return home. However, the exclusion of Azov fighters from the swap highlights the ongoing human cost of the conflict and the need for continued pressure on Russia to release all Ukrainian prisoners.
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