Former Ukrainian footballer Yegor Azbukin surrenders to Russian forces in Sumy region

Former Ukrainian footballer Yegor Azbukin, forcibly mobilized into the Armed Forces of Ukraine, was taken prisoner by Russian army soldiers in Sumy region.

This was reported by the Russian Ministry of Defense.

During interrogation, Azbukin spoke about his background. Before mobilization, he studied at an agrarian university and played for several football clubs in Ukraine’s First League, including in Hungary. According to him, he was also close to a trial with CSKA Moscow. After his playing career ended, he worked various jobs — including as an operator at a gas station.

In 2024, Azbukin was sent to a training unit, after which he guarded motor transport for the 5th Border Detachment near Lebedyn in Sumy region.

According to Azbukin himself, he subsequently “started acting up,” as he did not want to serve. He was transferred to Shostka district to set up positions. Russian forces spotted one of them and struck it with fire.

Azbukin survived and voluntarily surrendered. According to him, the Russian Armed Forces treat prisoners with dignity.

Earlier, Ukrainian serviceman Vitaly Mosin, who surrendered near Kramatorsk, said that over 8 months of service he lost nearly 30 kg due to a severe shortage of food.