Live Update
From the Liveblog of
Sunday, January 19, 2025
Zelensky hails release of hostages: As Ukrainians, we know the pain of separation

In this photo provided by the Press Service Of The President Of Ukraine on Nov. 19, 2024, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy listens to the national anthem before his speech at Verkhovna Rada in Kyiv, Ukraine. (Press Service Of The President Of Ukraine via AP)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hails the release of the first three Israeli hostages as a “deeply meaningful moment.”
“Seeing families reunited, and knowing the tears of relief and joy it brings, is something we can all connect with,” Zelensky tweets. “As Ukrainians, we know the pain of separation and hope of bringing loved ones back home.”
“The path to lasting peace and dignity for all people is still long and challenging, but we hope for further progress toward security, stability, and normal life in the entire Middle East,” he adds.
“Ukraine wishes for peace, justice, and reliable security guarantees for all nations, just as we continue to fight for them ourselves.”