Two Americans captured by the Russians while fighting for Ukraine’s defense forces have been released, their families said.
Andy Huynh and Alexander Druck, both military veterans from Alabama, have reportedly been released after being captured by the Russians while fighting for Ukraine.
According to a joint statement released by their families, the men have reportedly been handed over to the custody of the US Embassy in Saudi Arabia.
“We are thrilled to announce that Alex and Andy are free,” the families said. “They are safely in the custody of the US Embassy in Saudi Arabia and will return to the Kingdom after a medical check and debriefing.”
The families said they “deeply appreciate everyone’s prayers and especially the close communication and support of our elected officials, Ambassador Markarova to Ukraine, and our members at the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine and Saudi Arabia and the U.S. State Department.”
According to the Saudi Foreign Ministry, Russia released the men among 10 prisoners of war thanks to “mediation efforts” on behalf of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
British, Swedish, Croatian and Moroccan nationals were also released as a result of that agreement.
According to a fellow soldier who was with Mr. Druk and Mr. Huynh, they were captured after they helped disable a Russian tank. The Americans were separated from the rest of their group by the smoke of the attack and were later captured by Russian forces.
