Azovstal’s 23-year-old defender from Baluchin returns from Russian captivity
Today, Ukraine received another piece of good news: the exchange of prisoners of war took place, with 103 heroic soldiers returning home. The residents of Baluchin village were particularly happy about this, as 23-year-old Arsen Machuzhenko was among those released.
This was reported to the Holos Sokalshchyny by the Krasnenska settlement territorial community of the Zolochiv district
The information about his return was confirmed by friends, family and fellow villagers.
Arsen was among Azovstal’s defenders who held the line during the heavy fighting in Mariupol and was taken prisoner in May 2022.
Before the war, the young soldier signed a contract for military service, preparing to defend the country from the aggressor. His patriotism and courage showed in the most difficult time, when Azovstal’s defenders fought to the last, becoming a symbol of Ukraine’s resilience.
Despite the joy of returning home, Arsen has a long way to go in his rehabilitation. However, the most important thing for his family, friends, fellow Baluchyn villagers, and for all of us is that Arsen is alive and on his native land.
The release of defenders from captivity is a matter of great importance to Ukrainian society, which is looking forward to the return of every soldier. Arsen Machuzhenko is one of those whose story reminds us of the heroism and sacrifice of Ukraine’s defenders, as well as the importance of supporting those who are now returning home after difficult experiences.