Ukrainian Soldier Presumed Dead Calls Family After Release From Russian Captivity
February 7, 2026
Nazar Daletskyi's family buried him in 2023, sure he was killed in action. But Nazar recently called his mother, Nataliya, alive after being released from Russian captivity in a prisoner swap. "My emotions were so strong," Nataliya told the BBC, still shocked. The family's joy was clear in a video of the call. Nataliya asked, "You have your arms, your legs, everything?" Her cousin, Roksolana, shouted with joy nearby. Nazar fought from 2014, and returned to war when Russia invaded in 2022. He went missing in May 2022. Months later, a body was found and identified by DNA as Nazar's. The family mourned and held a funeral. Then in September, a soldier freed by Russia said Nazar was alive in prison. The family was stunned but unsure. This week Nazar called from Ukraine, ending nearly four years of silence. The family is removing photos and funeral details from social media to protect Nazar. An investigation is underway about the mistaken death report. Meanwhile, Nataliya is preparing Nazar's favorite food for his return. About 70,000 Ukrainians are missing, mostly soldiers. Nazar's return gives hope to many families waiting for news. "I wish all women, mothers, children get a call like we had - and this happiness," said Nataliya. "I'm just waiting for my son now, to hug him so tightly. I love him very much."
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Tags:
Ukraine
Soldier
Prisoner Swap
Missing Soldier
Family reunion
Russian Captivity
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