Ukrainian serviceman Nazariy Kurtyanyk, a native of the Sokal region, has returned home after more than three years of brutal captivity in Russia.
In May 2022, he and his comrades defended the Azovstal steel plant in Mariupol, where he was captured by enemy forces. Back home, his wife and young daughter were waiting, never losing hope for his safe return.
After years of inhumane treatment and suffering, Nazariy has finally set foot on Ukrainian soil again. His return has become a momentous occasion for the local community, as Nazariy is known not only as a brave soldier but also as a gifted accordionist whose music often filled concert halls with warmth and emotion.
From the very first days of the full-scale invasion, he volunteered to defend Ukraine, fulfilling his duty with dignity until he was captured during the withdrawal from Azovstal. What he endured in captivity is beyond words — the torture and psychological torment left scars that will remain with him for life.
He managed to survive thanks to his unshakable faith, the power of prayer, and the unwavering support of his loved ones. Special thanks go to his parents, Volodymyr and Lyudmyla, who tirelessly fought for their son’s release and prayed for his safety every single day.