Ukrainians gathered at Kyiv’s Independence Square on Sunday to mark the second anniversary of the Olenivka explosion, which claimed the lives of over 50 individuals held in the prison barracks by Russia. The solemn ceremony saw soldiers and civilians paying tribute to the victims and calling on the Ukrainian government to intensify efforts to secure the release of soldiers still held captive.
The Olenivka explosion, a tragic event during the ongoing conflict, remains a painful memory for many soldiers. Survivors and witnesses recounted the devastation caused by the blast, with calls for justice and accountability growing louder.
While Russia has alleged that Ukrainian forces were responsible for the explosion, investigations by various sources, including The Associated Press and the United Nations, point towards Russian involvement in the incident. Despite mounting evidence implicating Russia, public accusations have not been made by the U.N.
Two years on, the quest for truth and justice continues, with Ukrainians demanding answers about the circumstances surrounding the Olenivka tragedy. The commemoration event also served as a platform for protests against Russia's imprisonment of Ukrainian fighters, particularly those defending the Azovstal steel works in Mariupol.
The 'Free Azov' campaign, advocating for the release of Ukrainian prisoners of war, has gained momentum in Kyiv. Families of the imprisoned soldiers, including mothers, wives, and children, joined the gathering to express their anguish and hope for the safe return of their loved ones.
One soldier, who shared his harrowing experience of being injured and captured by Russian forces, emphasized the importance of solidarity and perseverance in securing the release of all captive soldiers. The emotional plea of a mother, longing for any sign of her son held in captivity, underscored the enduring pain and uncertainty faced by families of the prisoners of war.
The event served as a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict and the unwavering determination of Ukrainians to seek justice and reunite with their loved ones. As calls for a prisoner exchange grow louder, the spotlight remains on the Ukrainian government to prioritize the release of soldiers held by Russia.
