Support for Volodymyr Yakovenko
During the 26th round of the Ukrainian Premier League, a match between Dynamo and Shakhtar, fans from both sides unfurled banners demanding the release of Volodymyr "Orden" Yakovenko, who has been held captive for nearly four years. Dynamo ultras released a statement outlining their demands for his freedom.
Supporters from both clubs created banners reading 'Freedom for Orden' in Ukrainian and English. As Shakhtar ultras raised their banner, they set off pyrotechnics, adding an emotional charge to the demonstration. In their statement, Dynamo ultras noted that Yakovenko is a veteran of the Aidar and Azov units, as well as a defender of Azovstal. Recently, occupying forces illegally sentenced him to 18 years in a strict-regime prison.
Yakovenko’s Health Condition
Yakovenko has a Group II disability and an aortic prosthesis after heart surgery. He requires constant medical supervision and medication, neither of which is available in captivity. In their statement, Dynamo ultras stressed the urgent need to prioritize his inclusion in prisoner exchange lists and to involve the International Committee of the Red Cross for an independent medical examination. They also demand his immediate repatriation under international law.
'Our brother-in-arms and legend of the blue-and-white movement, Volodymyr Orden Yakovenko, has been in captivity for nearly four years,' Dynamo ultras emphasized.
They also underscored that 'we remained silent for a long time for the sake of safety, but now it is time to speak out loudly. Every day of delay is a risk to the life of a legend of our movement.'
This show of support at a football match reflects not only the emotions of the fans but also the public’s social responsibility toward soldiers taken prisoner. The demands for Yakovenko’s release highlight the importance of international pressure regarding the repatriation of Ukrainian troops and the protection of their rights, especially amid the ongoing conflict. Such actions can help raise awareness about the fates of prisoners and draw attention to their needs and rights, an important aspect in modern society.
The emotional display of support from fans highlights the urgent situation surrounding Volodymyr Yakovenko, a veteran with serious health issues. This comes amid calls for his inclusion in prisoner exchange lists, as detailed in another report about the immediate exchange of the Azovstal veteran. Understanding the broader context of his plight sheds light on the ongoing challenges faced by those captured in the conflict.