In a recent interview, Natalija Jepifanova, the head of the organization 'Oslobodenie vojakov,' highlights the taboo surrounding Ukrainian prisoners of war at the start of the Ukraine war. She reflects on the hesitancy of journalists, even those aligned with opposition media, to report on the true number of these prisoners. Jepifanova emphasizes the need for families and activists to unite in order to advocate for the rights and visibility of the captives. This organized effort comes from a deep understanding that the issue must be confronted head-on to bring attention to the plight of these individuals.

Throughout the interview, Jepifanova shares personal anecdotes, including her nephew's capture and her meetings with representatives from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). She raises concerns about the limitations and challenges faced by the ICRC in their mission, as well as the critical differences between the Red Cross Society and the International Committee of the Red Cross. Additionally, she addresses the unfortunate reality where the rights and funds meant for war prisoners are sometimes misappropriated by their relatives, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.

Recently, just before the publication of this interview, a significant development occurred with the exchange of 500 Ukrainian prisoners of war, capturing the attention of families and activists alike. This exchange included defenders from key regions such as Donetsk, Luhansk, Kharkiv, and Zaporizhia, highlighting the ongoing conflict and the ongoing need for advocacy in the fight for justice and recognition for the rights of prisoners of war.