A joint statement was published by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense.
They noted that the rescue operation of 2.5 thousand defenders of Mariupol was the only possible option to save the lives of the Ukrainian military.
"There was no alternative such as extraction, there was a choice: a rescue operation or death on Azovstal, first of all the seriously wounded, because the supplies of necessary medicines were running out. It was the seriously wounded who we managed to save first during the exchange in June: 144 people, of which 95 were defenders of Mariupol, who have already been returned. Most of them had serious injuries. As of now, they have received the necessary medical assistance and rehabilitation", the military wrote.
The joint statement also emphasized that all state institutions are working to return the Heroes of Mariupol and all Ukrainians held captive by the Russians.
"The Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War continues to work 24/7 for the release of Ukrainian Defenders from captivity, the search for persons who have gone missing under special circumstances. At the same time, we maintain contact with the families of captured servicemen and fulfill our obligations regarding their social security", the military added.
However, as noted by the Ukrainian military, the Russian Federation does not keep its obligations, neglects agreements, as well as does not recognize international norms and rules of warfare.
"The issue of the exchange of prisoners of war is complex and sensitive. For its part, Ukraine constantly strengthens public communication with our partners, appeals to international organizations and world leaders, draws the world's attention to the actions of the enemy with Ukrainian military personnel who are in captivity. We call on the whole civilized world to prevent the execution of the Ukrainian Defenders in Mariupol, as announced by the executioners. We demand to immediately send representatives of the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross to the places where Ukrainian prisoners of war are being held, primarily Olenivka", the joint statement of the law enforcement agencies says.