Serhii Mykhailenko, a member of the Azov Brigade, has been freed from Russian captivity during a prisoner exchange on February 5th. Mykhailenko, who had been imprisoned following an illegal trial in a Siberian penal colony, is a defender of Mariupol. Throughout the conflict, he suffered severe injuries, including shrapnel wounds, while trying to protect his home city during the Russian invasion. His wife, Tamara Koriahina, shared the news of his release, highlighting the challenges they faced during the besiegement of Mariupol.

In May 2022, Mykhailenko maintained communication with his wife despite the chaos surrounding them and indicated that he had received orders to surrender. His situation deteriorated, particularly after a terrorist attack at Olenivka prison where he was located. Fortunately, Serhii's arduous journey has culminated in his release, allowing him to receive medical treatment, including scheduled surgery for his injuries sustained during the conflict.

Mykhailenko's case underscores the larger narrative of imprisonment and the ongoing struggles of soldiers and civilians in the context of the Ukraine-Russia war. His release is not just a personal victory for him and his family but also represents hope for many others who are still in captivity. The support and resilience shown by families like Koriahina's throughout this tumultuous period reflect the broader impact of the conflict on Ukrainian society and the continuing fight for freedom and justice.