Heartbreak in Court: Azov Regiment Fighters Sentenced

Kateryna Bondarenko faces anguish as her boyfriend, Azov Regiment's Oleksii Smykov, receives a 23-year prison sentence from a Russian military court. Urging international pressure on Russia for prisoner exchange, Bondarenko remains hopeful for Smykov's return while reflecting on their future plans amid a challenging war backdrop.

Kateryna Bondarenko, faced with grim news, still urged for hope and action following the sentencing of her boyfriend, Azov Regiment fighter Oleksii Smykov, to 23 years by a Russian court. 'Everyone knew it was going to happen, but everyone was shocked,' she shared after the hearing.

Accused under Russian charges of terrorism, the regiment members captivated international attention. Ukraine has called Russia's actions a violation of humanitarian law, presenting these men as combatants rather than criminals. The Azov fighters were captured defending Mariupol after the 2022 Russian invasion.

Bondarenko, striving to stay optimistic, hopes for prisoner exchanges. 'If we don't demand their return, they won't just appear,' she emphasized. Despite challenges, she keeps their future plans alive, envisioning a life beyond conflict. All while a supportive network of families remains her steadfast companion.

(With inputs from agencies.)