The Extraordinary Return of Nazar Daletskyi: A Tale of Misidentification and Reunion

Nazar Daletskyi, a Ukrainian soldier, was declared dead in May 2023 after a DNA match confirmed his identity following a tragic incident in Donetsk. His mother, Nataliia Daletska, mourned his loss, believing she had buried her only son. However, in a remarkable turn of events nearly three years later, Nazar was freed from a Russian prison as part of a prisoner exchange, leading to an emotional reunion with his mother.

The Guardian

Nazar, born in 1979, volunteered for military service during the early weeks of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. After being turned away twice due to medical issues, he finally joined the local military unit and was deployed to the front in Donbas. His mother received daily calls from him until communication ceased abruptly when he was captured.

The Guardian

In May 2023, Nataliia received devastating news from a Ukrainian official: her son had died on his 44th birthday. The official explained that Nazar had been part of a convoy that came under fire. Despite her disbelief, Nataliia accepted the grim news, leading to a funeral where she buried what she believed were her son's remains, accompanied by personal items and a military uniform.

The Guardian

In September 2023, Nataliia learned from her niece that two former prisoners of war had seen Nazar alive during his captivity. This prompted her to seek new DNA testing, which confirmed a match with her son. By early February 2024, Ukrainian authorities informed her that Nazar was alive and would be part of an upcoming prisoner exchange.

The Guardian

When Nataliia finally spoke to Nazar after his release, her joy was palpable. “My God, how long I’ve waited for you, my precious child,” she exclaimed. Nazar, unaware of the grief his family endured, initially misunderstood the situation, fearing he had lost his mother. Currently, he is in a rehabilitation center, where he has begun to recover from the physical and psychological toll of his captivity.

The Guardian

Despite the joy of reunion, a lingering mystery remains regarding whose remains were buried in Nazar's place. The exhumed remains have been sent for further testing, raising concerns for another family who may be facing a similar tragedy. This situation highlights the complexities and human cost of the ongoing conflict.

The Guardian

As Nataliia prepares for her son's return, she reflects on the meals she will cook for him, eager to reconnect. Meanwhile, the results of the DNA tests on the remains are expected soon, which may provide closure to another family grappling with loss. The emotional journey of Nazar and Nataliia underscores the profound impacts of war on families and the enduring hope for reunion.

The Guardian

• “My God, how long I’ve waited for you, my precious child,” — Nataliia Daletska, Mother of Nazar Daletskyi

The Guardian

• “If the DNA match was with the father, then anything could be possible, but it was with me,” she said.” — Nataliia Daletska

The Guardian

• “Heroes do not die.” — Popular slogan in Ukraine honoring fallen soldiers.

The Guardian