Ukrainian Marine's Torture and Recovery

Yuri was captured on April 12, 2022, while defending Mariupol from Russian attacks. His mother, Milana Kompaniiets, tirelessly searched for him during his absence, eventually learning of his horrific torture through conversations with other released prisoners. Upon his release on September 14, 2024, she found a severely altered son who could barely respond to her affection. Milana reported that Yuri had been beaten and electrocuted so frequently that he became almost paralyzed and may have suffered a stroke. Despite his previous fluency in multiple languages, he now struggles to communicate, leaving his family heartbroken as they navigate the aftermath of his captivity.

The Impact of Torture

The psychological and physical toll of Yuri’s torture is evident in his inability to engage in basic human interactions, such as laughing or expressing joy. His mother’s emotional reunion with him highlighted the profound changes he has undergone, as he appeared stiff and unresponsive. This transformation reflects not only the physical damage inflicted upon him but also the deep psychological scars left by his experiences.

A Mother’s Despair

Milana’s journey to find her son was filled with anguish as she sought evidence of his survival. She discovered a photograph of prisoners that included Yuri, recognizing his altered appearance, and learned from former cellmates about the brutal treatment he endured. Her heart-wrenching accounts emphasize the emotional burden carried by families of prisoners of war, who often grapple with the uncertainty of their loved ones’ fates and the trauma they may face upon return.