Russian Ambassador reports on efforts to free Maxim Kharkin from captivity in Gaza

The Russian authorities continue to work on the early release from captivity in the Gaza Strip of Maxim Kharkin, a native of Donbass, who, according to available information, is listed as alive. This was announced by Russian Ambassador to Israel Anatoly Viktorov in an interview with Izvestia.

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"Today we continue to work on the speedy release of Maxim Kharkin, a native of Donbass. According to the information we have, he is listed as alive. This is confirmed by the Israeli side," the diplomat said.

Initially, the request came from Harkin's mother, a Russian citizen with whom he maintains regular contact, the man's daughter also has Russian citizenship and lives in the Russian Federation, the ambassador added.

"We have several more humanitarian appeals in the works. However, it should be understood that this process is associated with many nuances. Especially in the light of recent events, it involves taking into account the current situation in the enclave and the realities "on the ground." First of all, I am referring to the adoption on August 8 by the Israeli military and political Cabinet of a plan to expand the military operation in the Gaza Strip," Anatoly Viktorov said.

There are still 50 hostages in captivity of Hamas, among them Maxim Harkin.