American veterans captured in Ukraine sent to prison, family says

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Two Americans captured while fighting with the Ukrainian Army apparently have been sent to a prison where they are spending all their time together, the family of one of the men said.

Alex Drueke, who was captured with fellow veteran and Alabama resident Andy Huynh in early June, told his mother about the transfer in a telephone call, according to a statement issued late Thursday by the Drueke family.

“He sounded strong and clear-minded. He said he and Andy have been moved to a traditional prison, that they are no longer in solitary confinement but that they are together now 24/7,” said Lois “Bunny” Drueke, his mother.

The men are believed to be the first Americans captured while fighting for Ukraine. A third man is in a cell with the pair but Drueke didn’t disclose his name and Drueke said she didn’t press for the information for fear of the call being disconnected.

Drueke and Huynh failed to return to a meeting spot after their group came under heavy fire in the Kharkiv region of northeastern Ukraine near the Russian border on June 9. The two traveled to help Ukraine separately and became friends in part because of their shared Alabama background, relatives have said.

More In Flashpoints

China extends threatening military exercises around Taiwan

China said it is extending threatening military exercises surrounding Taiwan that have disrupted shipping and air traffic and substantially raised concerns.

China continues 4th day of military drills around Taiwan

Taiwan said it continued to detect Chinese aircraft, ships and drones simulating attacks on the island.

Pentagon denies DC request for National Guard migrant help

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin declined to provide Guard personnel and the use of the D.C. Armory to assist with the reception of migrants into the city.

China halts climate, military ties over Pelosi Taiwan visit

China on Friday said it is canceling or suspending dialogue with the United States on a range of issues from climate change to military relations and anti-drug efforts.

China conducts ‘precision missile strikes’ in Taiwan Strait for military exercise

China says it conducted "precision missile strikes" in the Taiwan Strait on Thursday as part of military exercises.

In Other News

US to send Ukraine another $1 billion in military aid

The new aid includes additional rockets for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS, as well as other ammunition and equipment.

Milley almost quit over Trump, wrote biting resignation letter, new book reveals

“You are using the military to create fear in the minds of the people," Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley wrote in a never-sent resignation letter.

Soldier becomes Rhode Island Guard’s first Black colonel

Sharon Harmon attained the rank of colonel at a promotion ceremony Saturday at Camp Fogarty.

Remains of WWII solider identified as North Carolina man

Army Pfc. David Owens will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery at a date to be determined, according to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency.

Here’s what we know about F-35 ejection seat woes so far

Military officials won’t answer whether they’ve found the problem on any planes.

Load More