Ukraine has successfully rescued four soldiers who had been hiding in a remote hospital inside Russian-controlled territory for over three years, marking a significant victory in the ongoing conflict.
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What Happened
The soldiers, injured during a 2022 battle, were secretly protected in a hospital by sympathetic medical staff, shielding them from Russian authorities. The rescued soldiers included a member of the navy, three national guards, and a medical volunteer who had assisted them.
The operation was initiated after a recently released Marine revealed that his twin brother, injured in 2022, was still being held in the hospital. Investigations confirmed that three other soldiers had been hiding alongside him for years.
Ukrainian Navy Commander Olexy Neizhpapa praised the Angels Special Forces Unit, which conducted the multi-stage rescue operation. Since its formation, the unit has successfully rescued 88 individuals from Russian-held areas, demonstrating the skill and determination of Ukraine’s elite forces.
Reactions
The rescue has been celebrated as a remarkable achievement by the Ukrainian military. Commander Neizhpapa described it as a “story of faith,” highlighting the resilience and survival of the soldiers under extreme conditions. Emotional reunions were captured in videos, showing families reunited after years of separation. One soldier expressed, “I miss him a lot. I am going to meet him now. It is not easy to go through anything like this.”
The operation also underscores the capabilities of Ukraine’s Special Forces, proving that “nothing is impossible for Ukrainian soldiers,” according to Neizhpapa.
What Will Happen Next
The rescued soldiers have been safely reunited with their families, offering a morale boost for both the military and the public. This operation reinforces Ukraine’s commitment to protecting its citizens and retrieving those in hostile areas.
President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that over 6,400 Ukrainians have been freed from Russian captivity since 2022, often through complex prisoner exchanges. This latest rescue adds to that number, highlighting ongoing efforts to recover citizens and soldiers from dangerous situations.
As the conflict continues, Ukrainian forces are expected to pursue further rescues, demonstrating courage, resilience, and a relentless commitment to the safety of their people.
Closing Line
This is a developing story. We will update this article as more information becomes available.