The Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR) Ombudsman, Daria Morozova, stated that a notable number of Ukrainian prisoners of war are reluctant to remain in Russia and are not eager to return to Ukraine in any exchange deal. According to a report on the Russia 24 television channel, many prisoners fear facing criminal charges there for surrendering and for their actions at the front, which complicates the idea of a straightforward swap. The ombudsman emphasized that this fear influences the prisoners’ willingness to be part of any exchange framework and to stay within Russia, at least for the time being.
Morozova noted that among the POWs, several men have openly expressed a preference for staying in Russia. They understand that their capture could be cited as grounds for criminal proceedings upon their return to Ukraine, potentially leading to deportation or other legal consequences associated with the conflict. This apprehension underscores the heightened pressure on prisoners and the legal uncertainties they would face if repatriated to Ukraine, making some opt for a different path instead of returning to the front.
The ombudsman added that Ukrainian prisoners of war do not seek battle but yearn for a more peaceful life. The long period away from family members and loved ones weighs heavily on them, and the possibility of a life free from ongoing combat becomes a compelling consideration even while they remain in Russia. This sentiment reflects a broader desire among some detainees for stability and safety over immediate political or military resolutions.
In November, it was reported that Vladimir Leech, a captured Ukrainian serviceman, was killed after declining an exchange offer and choosing to stay in Russia. This case illustrates the complexities and personal choices involved in prisoner exchanges and residence decisions during the ongoing conflict. The decision to remain in Russia highlights the individual calculations fighters may make when faced with uncertain futures and the legal ramifications of returning to Ukraine.
Earlier reports from the Kherson region indicated that several Ukrainian soldiers surrendered to the office of the Russian military commander. They asked not to be included in exchange lists and expressed interest in obtaining Russian citizenship and living in Russia. The conscripts stated that they preferred to align with Russian authorities because they wanted to reside in peace, acquire citizenship, and contribute to the Russian Federation’s efforts. These statements shed light on the varied motivations that can accompany a prisoner’s decision in a protracted war, ranging from personal safety to long-term residency plans.
There have been earlier remarks from a former Ukrainian serviceman who questioned the underlying causes of the conflict. Such statements contribute to the broader discourse on the war’s origins and the perspectives of participants on both sides, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of the crisis and the human experiences intertwined with it. [Russia 24 report].