Representatives of the GRU (Main Intelligence Directorate of Russia) tried to recruit fighters of the “Azov” regiment, who surrendered in May at the “Azovstal” metallurgical plant, in order to “destroy the West and the United States together”, Ukrainian Pravda reports.

“Regarding the defenders of the Azov regiment, in particular, the intelligence had this idea: when we came out of captivity, they wanted to attract the defenders of the Azov regiment to the unit, because “you guys fight well.” , (now I am quoting the GRU), “so let’s destroy the West and the USA together,” the commander of the “Azov” regiment, Major Bohdan “Tavr” Krotevichi, said at a press conference.

According to him, all the fighters of “Azov” were of the same opinion and consider the Russians as enemies. “We are Ukrainian soldiers. Ukraine is our Motherland.”

Krotevich also asked journalists to refrain from asking questions about the capture. According to him, the disclosure of information about the time spent in Russian captivity can harm those who are still there.

Krotevychi noted that any comments that reach the media could have the opposite effect for Ukrainian prisoners of war and worsen their conditions or affect the negotiation process for the release of prisoners of war.

The fighters, who were released from Russian captivity at the end of September, also reported that they are now working with law enforcement agencies. They are questioned about Russia’s violation of international law.

According to Krotevych, despite the guarantees of the International Committee of the Red Cross, the Russians captured several civilians who tried to leave “Azovstal”.