Our Oleksii is home! We rejoice at the return from captivity of an alumnus and simultaneously a student of the Faculty of Business and Law
On October 23, 2026, Oleksii Shamanskyi returned from Russian captivity — a graduate and student of the Faculty of Business and Law of Kherson State University, a defender of Mariupol. After four and a half years of captivity, he is back on his native land. For our faculty, this is special, long-awaited, and incredibly joyful news!
Some news is so extraordinary that you have to read it several times before you can truly believe it. This is one of those moments. Our Oleksii Shamanskyi has returned from Russian captivity!
October 23, 2026, became a day of immense joy for his family, loved ones, and our entire faculty community.
Oleksii is a native of Kherson whose life has been closely connected with Kherson State University. In 2013, he enrolled in the Enterprise Economics programme and earned his bachelor's degree in 2019. He later worked for the National Police of Ukraine but decided to continue his education and returned to his university, this time to study Law.
In April 2022, during the defence of Mariupol, Oleksii was captured by Russian forces. More than four long years of captivity followed.
And now, at last, he is back home!
For our faculty, this news holds special meaning. Behind it is the story of someone who was part of our student community, who studied, made plans, and chose his professional path. And today, what matters most is that Oleksii is back in Ukraine, free and reunited with his loved ones.
We understand that recovering from such a long period of captivity will take time. Above all, we hope that the years ahead will bring Oleksii peace, the warmth and support of those closest to him, joyful reunions, and opportunities to fulfil his dreams.
Oleksii, we are truly happy that you are back!
We wish you good health, strength, and all the time you need for yourself and your loved ones. May the future bring you many wonderful moments, new plans, and dreams fulfilled.
We would be delighted to welcome you back to Kherson State University — not simply as one of our graduates, but above all as someone whose return brings us such genuine happiness.
Welcome back, Oleksii! We are so glad you are home! 💙💛
May we hear more and more news like this. We remember all Ukrainians who remain in captivity and continue to await their safe return.