Maxim Herkin, a survivor of captivity, shared his harrowing experiences on a televised interview, revealing how he concealed his identity as a military officer to stay alive. He described moments of hope when he realized that his country had not forgotten the hostages, and exposed the staged nature of videos released by his captors, detailing how tomato paste and sand were used to simulate injuries. Herkin recounted the fabrication behind a video that purported to show his rescue, explaining that his family quickly recognized it as fake due to inconsistencies in his behavior and language. He also spoke about the violence he endured from his guards, which intensified after public statements by a government minister regarding prison conditions. Herkin urged political leaders to be mindful of their words, emphasizing the impact they can have on those in vulnerable situations.