303 Ukrainian Soldiers Returned from Captivity in Major Prisoner Exchange

Soldier Yevhen’s Journey Home After Captivity

According to Главком: On May 25, 2025, Ukrainian soldier Yevhen was released from captivity as part of a prisoner swap conducted under a 1,000-for-1,000 formula. His return, along with that of many other Ukrainian troops, marked a significant moment for the nation. Photographer Mykhailo Rybko captured the reunion on a Kyiv street, where Yevhen and his comrades were seen enjoying chocolate-a simple pleasure they had been denied for three years while in enemy hands.

Life After Release

Before the full-scale invasion, Yevhen worked for a company that delivered exotic fruits. When the war escalated, he chose to enlist. In the May 25 exchange, Ukraine successfully brought back 303 military personnel, including members of:

• The Armed Forces of Ukraine
• The National Guard
• The State Border Guard Service of Ukraine
• The State Special Transport Service

Since returning, Yevhen has begun rehabilitation, focusing on self-care, traveling to different places, and reconnecting with people. He shared:

“Right now, I’m taking care of myself, going through rehab, traveling around, and talking to people-because I truly missed that for such a long time.”

Yevhen also mentioned receiving numerous meeting requests but struggling to find time for everyone, given his three-year absence.

He plans to continue serving and expressed determination not to stop:

“I won’t be discharged; I’ll keep fighting. I’ll recover, and then we move forward.”

A video showing Yevhen and other defenders eating chocolate quickly went viral, becoming a symbol of hope and recovery after prolonged captivity. Similarly, a photo of prisoner of war Maksym Kolesnikov holding an apple also spread widely online, highlighting the emotional weight of Ukrainian defenders coming home.

The return of Yevhen and his fellow soldiers represents a key milestone in the ongoing prisoner exchange process amid the war. These events not only underscore the resilience of Ukraine’s defenders but also reflect the broader struggle for territorial integrity and human rights. The viral images and videos serve as personal stories and collective symbols of hope for peace and recovery across the nation.

The recent return of 303 Ukrainian soldiers highlights a broader trend in prisoner exchanges, reminiscent of the earlier swap involving 193 defenders who were freed from Russian captivity. Each release serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by military personnel and their families, as well as the resilience of those who continue to fight for their country.