The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has reacted to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s announcement regarding the release of two soldiers with dual Ukrainian and Hungarian citizenship, who were reportedly held captive by Russia. Officials stated that Ukraine had not received any information about these individuals, prompting them to invite the Hungarian chargé d’affaires for clarification.
In a statement to reporters, the ministry acknowledged reports of the supposed transfer of several prisoners of war from Russia to Hungary but emphasized that no details about the released individuals had been communicated to Kyiv.
“It is undoubtedly significant when individuals are freed from Russian captivity, especially considering that 95% of Ukrainian prisoners endure torture while detained. However, the Ukrainian side has not been provided with specific information about the released individuals, which is why we will invite the Hungarian chargé d’affaires to obtain accurate data. We will also request access to those who have been returned,” the ministry noted.
Furthermore, officials criticized Moscow and Budapest for previously exploiting sensitive issues surrounding prisoners of war for political gain.
“It is strikingly cynical when the release of individuals becomes part of political publicity ahead of elections in Hungary and a bargaining chip in relations with the Kremlin. Clearly, neither Putin nor the current leadership in Budapest shows any limits in their cynicism. We hope that after today, they will leave these individuals alone and allow them to choose how to live their lives,” the ministry added.
Additionally, the Foreign Ministry reaffirmed that the return of Ukrainian citizens from captivity remains a top priority, with ongoing efforts by Ukrainian representatives to negotiate their release.
“We are working on all platforms and with all parties that can assist in freeing our people from captivity. Recently, the Ukrainian negotiating team achieved success in peace efforts led by the United States, and active work on continuing exchanges is ongoing,” they stated.
The ministry also condemned the manipulation of ethnic issues by Hungary, stressing that Ukraine prioritizes the protection of its citizens regardless of their ethnic background.
On March 4, during a meeting with Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto in Moscow, Putin claimed that Russia would release two soldiers at Hungary’s request, who were serving in the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has expressed skepticism regarding claims made by President Putin about the release of two soldiers with dual citizenship. The ministry emphasized the lack of information provided to Ukraine and criticized the political manipulation surrounding the issue.