Monday, February 2, 2026 9:56:13 AM

A wounded Ukrainian serviceman, after being taken prisoner, managed to psychologically break Russian assault troops and compel them to surrender, according to reports. The Russian captive said he does not want to return to Russia.

An unusual episode in the Donetsk region quickly spread across the internet. A wounded Armed Forces of Ukraine fighter, Volodymyr, call sign “Positive,” fell into Russian hands but turned the situation around and convinced the Russians to surrender, reported Journalist Andriy Tsaplienko.

The clash took place near Kostyantynivka. During the fighting, Volodymyr was wounded and ended up in the hands of Russian forces. He was listed as missing for a long time. While in captivity, he did not give up; instead, he began negotiating with his captors and persuaded two Russian assault troops to lay down their arms and surrender to the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Video of the episode was published on social media.

During the attempt to cross the front line, one of the Russians was killed. The second was brought to Ukrainian positions.

Despite his serious condition, Volodymyr moved toward his own lines on his own, effectively leading the captive soldier with him. Ukrainian troops found and evacuated them.

The rescue operation was led by Pavlo Fedosenko, deputy commander of the 11th Army Corps and a Hero of Ukraine. Thanks to the work of reconnaissance and an evacuation team, both men were brought out of the danger zone.

The Ukrainian soldier is now undergoing treatment and faces a lengthy rehabilitation.

(C)UAWIRE 2026