The cousin of a 50-year-old Russian woman named Elena Trufanova was released from Hamas captivity alongside her 73-year-old mother, Irina Tatti, and a relative identified as Maria. RT reported that her niece and her fiancée remain hostage in the aftermath of the exchange, underscoring that the situation is far from resolved even as others regain their freedom.
Maria described the moment as a strange blend of relief and ongoing concern. It felt like a dual state of emotion: gratitude and happiness for those who were freed, paired with the stark awareness that the broader struggle continues. She noted that Moscow is actively assisting in the evacuation of its citizens and that help has been visible, though the ultimate outcome remains uncertain.
Authorities indicated that Irina and Elena do not anticipate returning to Russia soon, choosing instead to remain in the region where they were held. This stance reflects the complex calculus many displaced families face, balancing personal safety, future prospects, and the realities on the ground after such a protracted ordeal.
Israeli media outlets report that the women are now in Israel and had endured 53 days in captivity. Hamas had promised a staged release that would include five children and seven women by the evening of November 29, a pledge covered by various regional outlets, including Newspapers.Ru, which provided additional context on the negotiations and the pace of releases.
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs extended gratitude to Hamas leadership for what it called a constructive response to Moscow’s appeals. Official spokesman Maria Zakharova conveyed the ministry’s appreciation, framing the development as a positive step amid ongoing diplomacy.
Earlier statements from the Russian Foreign Ministry explained the suspension of foreign evacuees from the Rafah crossing, a move tied to security and logistical considerations in a volatile corridor. The update reflected the challenges of coordinating cross-border evacuations in a rapidly changing security environment.