Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Robert Aderholt (AL-04) announced that the two Alabamians captured in Ukraine, Alexander Drueke and Andy Huynh, have been freed, according to their families.

“Today, I was informed that Alex Drueke and Andy Huynh have been freed from captivity and will soon return to the United States!” celebrated Rep. Sewell. “Words cannot express my joy and relief at this wonderful news. I have been deeply inspired by the strength and resilience of Bunny Drueke and Dianna Shaw as we work to bring these two veterans home. We are all so grateful that Alex and Andy will soon be back on American soil and reunited with their families.”

In June, Ms. Lois “Bunny” Drueke reached out to Rep. Sewell’s office after losing contact with her son Alex Drueke, a Tuscaloosa Army Veteran who volunteered to assist the Ukrainian army in their war against Russia. Since then, Sewell has been working with the Alabama Congressional Delegation and the U.S. Department of State to determine Drueke’s whereabouts and ensure his safe return. Sewell’s office has remained in close contact with Drueke’s family.

Rep. Sewell spoke with Alex Drueke’s family today following the news of his release. Ms. Lois “Bunny” Drueke, his mother, and Ms. Dianna Shaw, his aunt, released the following joint statement:

"We are thrilled to announce that Alex and Andy are free. They are safely in the custody of the U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia and after medical checks and debriefing they will return to the States. We deeply appreciate everyone's prayers and especially the cooperation and support of Rep. Sewell and the U.S. Department of State."