The love story of border guards who defended Mariupol and survived capture
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On January 3, 230 Ukrainians were exchanged from Russian captivity.
One of those who returned home was Ilya, a border guard dog handler, who, together with his beloved, defended Mariupol and was captured.
His girlfriend Alina returned from captivity in October 2022. Now the lovers are close again after two years of separation.
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The story of love, separation and reunion of the couple was told by the State Border Service.
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| Ilya and Alina, border guards and canine experts |
The war separated Ilya and Alina, border dog handlers, in Mariupol.
“We were driving to Ilyich and someone shouted that all the girls were gathering in one place. I gave her the dogs, I kissed her, said “Happy. As soon as I have a connection, I will definitely contact you.” That’s where I saw her for the last time.” – remembers Ilya.
Both were captured, where they did not have any news about each other.
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| The pair defended Mariupol together and were captured |
The girl spent 5 months in captivity.
After returning home, she continued her service and waited for her lover. There was no news from him during this long period.
“He said we’d get through this. No matter what, I had to hang on and he loved me. I just couldn’t give up.”– says Alina.
Ilya did not know that his girlfriend had been exchanged. Until January 3, 2024, the boy did not have any information about his beloved and his relatives.
“I prayed to God that Alina was alive and well. I already thought that she was gone. I have already buried her many times…
There were guys near me who said “Ilya, she is strong, don’t worry, everything will be fine” – shares the boy.
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| All photos: DPSU |
Ilya recently returned from captivity as part of the largest exchange during the Great War.
The guy knew the numbers of the closest people by heart – first he called his dad.
“I called my father, I said, “Do you know who is calling?” He said, “No.” “Dad, it’s Ilya.” He screams, cries. “Son, you are alive, you are back! I thought you were gone”…
After that, I immediately asked where Alina was. And I was very afraid to hear that she was gone. He says “Alina, thank God, it’s been a year since I’ve been at home”says the soldier.
Ilya is currently undergoing rehabilitation. And he finally has the opportunity to hold his bride’s hand, the border guards add.
Read also: The son of a captured soldier dreamed of a phone so that his father would call him. And he waited for the call
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