Thousands in Kyiv gathered to remember the Olenivka prison explosion, with Azov brigade soldiers paying tribute to fallen comrades. Sgt. Masalitin, a survivor, described the horror while a UN analysis implicated Russia without making a public accusation.
Families pleaded for news of captive loved ones, urging President Zelenskyy's government to secure prisoner exchanges for Azov fighters. Meanwhile, Ukrainian ex-convicts are joining the military for amnesty, with thousands signing up to fight Russia's invasion.
These prisoners serve without leave until the end of the war, then are granted parole. Justice Minister says up to 20,000 prisoners could be eligible.
Despite difficulties, Ukrainian authorities claim to provide better conditions for prisoners of war compared to Russia. However, international human rights organizations have denounced abuses against both Russian and Ukrainian captives.
The situation in the prisons remains precarious, with many soldiers suffering from severe injuries and amputations. In the midst of this, President Selenskyj visited Ukrainian special forces at the frontlines, while Russia continued its attacks on Ukrainian power plants and engaged in arbitrary arrests in the occupied territories.
