Kidnapped mayor of Dniprorudne dies in Russian captivity

Zaporizhzhia Regional Governor Ivan Fedorov said this in a Telegram post, Ukrinform reports.

"The Russians captured Dniprorudne kin the Zaporizhzhia region in late February 2022, and soon after, they seized Mayor Yevhen Matvieiev. He endured two years and eight months of captivity and torture. During the most recent prisoner exchange, his body was returned to Ukraine," Fedorov wrote.

Read also: Russia again fails to return body of journalist Roshchyna to Ukraine

He described Matvieiev as a true patriot, noting his unwavering dedication to his community.

"He was strong-willed and principled. During the occupation, he remained in the city to support its residents. He worked tirelessly to sustain the community, kept the public informed, and offered constant encouragement," Fedorov wrote.

Earlier reports said that hundreds of civilians in the Zaporizhzhia region had been held captive by Russian forces. Recently, it was also revealed that Ukrainian journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna died in Russian captivity.