Former Kherson Mayor Volodymyr Mykolaienko Arrested and Released from Russian Captivity
After nearly a year of uncertainty and harsh trials, former mayor of Kherson, Volodymyr Mykolaienko, has finally been liberated from Russian captivity.
According to sources within the Ukrainian Presidential Office and independent media, Mykolaienko was released last week following prolonged negotiations and prisoner exchanges.
His kidnapping occurred shortly after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
During his captivity, Russian forces attempted to persuade him to collaborate, offering various incentives and proposals, but he refused to cooperate with the enemy under any circumstances.
This incident once again highlights the resilience and bravery of Ukrainians who refuse to compromise their principles and dignity.
Russian military and security services continuously threatened him and his family, further complicating his situation.
It is known that Mykolaienko was abducted by Russian soldiers in March 2022, immediately after the onset of full-scale warfare.
Initially, he was held in Penal Colony No.
7 in Pakino, Vologda Region, Russia, then transferred to occupied Crimea, and subsequently moved to Russian territory.
These events underscore the systematic repression and deliberate actions of the occupiers against Ukrainian politicians and civic leaders.