During Interrogation, Azov Fighter Learns of Kherson’s Liberation and Smiles Through the Pain

Key Intelligence from Captivity

According to Главком: Dmytro Kanuper, call sign 'Rasti,' an Azov regiment soldier held by Russian forces for over two years, discovered during an interrogation in early December that Ukrainian troops had liberated Kherson and that preparations were underway for a prisoner exchange. Despite being beaten, Kanuper managed to smile and relay this critical news to fellow prisoners in his cell.

“It was around the beginning of December. I overheard the Russians saying the Ukrainians had freed Kherson. They were hitting me, but when I heard that, I started smiling-I was overjoyed. Then I heard them mention another exchange was being arranged. I immediately knew this was information I had to pass on to the guys.” - Dmytro Kanuper

This news became a vital morale booster for the captives. Kanuper also recalled the exchange of Denys 'Redis' Prokopenko, commander of the Azov regiment, which sparked joy among prisoners. “I looked at their faces, and smiles appeared,” he shared.

Additionally, on May 15, a prisoner swap between Ukraine and Russia brought 205 Ukrainians home. Those released included:

• privates
• sergeants
• officers

Most had been in captivity since 2022.

Kanuper emphasized the crucial role of commanders in military units, stating: “A commander can lead a large number of personnel, while we are soldiers who follow orders. You can train soldiers, but finding such officers is the real challenge.”

His remarks highlight the importance of leadership in wartime and its direct impact on troop morale.

The significance of prisoner exchanges and the flow of information to troops underscores how morale can shape outcomes in conflict. For Kanuper and his comrades, the news of Kherson’s liberation was not just a moment of happiness-it became a beacon of hope during their darkest days in captivity. Moreover, such exchanges signal both sides’ willingness to seek compromise even amid fierce hostilities, potentially paving the way for future peace efforts.

This uplifting news about Kherson's liberation is part of a broader context of recent developments, including a significant prisoner swap that brought home 205 Ukrainians. Such exchanges not only restore hope among soldiers but also highlight the ongoing efforts to support those still in captivity. The morale boost from these events is crucial during challenging times in the conflict.