Illia Samoilenko, a soldier in the controversial Azov Regiment, survived a siege and months as a POW in Moscow; says he still has much work to do, sympathizes with Israel's stance

Kyiv says it secured freedom for hundreds who fought at Azovstal in exchange for Ukrainian pro-Russian opposition leader Viktor Medvedchuk; deal mediated by Saudi Arabia, Turkey

Fiancées and mothers tell The Times of Israel they don't know if Azovstal POWs are alive, and feel abandoned by Red Cross, government; ask Kyiv rabbi to petition Israel for help

A 20-year-old soldier calling himself 'Buffalo' recounts fulfilling 'dream' of flying helicopter, almost being abandoned during rescue operation in Mariupol

Remains taken to Kyiv for DNA testing, identification; negotiations ongoing to secure release of 2,500 fighters taken captive by Russia after surrender of strategic Azovstal plant

Head of self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic says soldiers who needed medical assistance have been hospitalized while others were put in detention facility