Wars leave many uncertainties. While battles unfold, soldiers on the front lines often go missing, leaving families in distress.
For those waiting at home, the lack of information can be unbearable.
Loved ones hold onto hope, searching for any news. When answers do not come, frustration grows, and people demand action.
Angry Over Lack of Communications
Thousands gathered in Kyiv, calling on the government to take stronger steps in securing the release of Ukrainian prisoners of war held by Russia.
Protesters expressed anger over the lack of communication about missing soldiers. Many claim officials are not providing enough details.
Relatives of those who vanished during combat spoke about their frustration. Tetiana, the wife of a missing soldier, said:
"It is silence, silence everywhere. My brothers, no one says anything, just like the command is silent."
Demonstrators urged authorities to step up efforts in locating missing service members. The rally began with a moment of silence.
Afterward, the Honor Guard Orchestra of the Presidential Brigade performed Ukraine's national anthem.
"We came here so they are not forgotten, so that when they return, they see that they were not forgotten here," said Iulia, whose husband is also missing.
Protests like this have taken place before, as families seek information about their loved ones.
Since the war began, Ukraine and Russia have conducted multiple prisoner exchanges. The most recent one occurred on January 15, 2025.
Ukraine has not released an official number of its soldiers held by Russia, but estimates suggest it is over 8,000.
