Russia has granted citizenship to former Gaza hostage Maksim Harkin, 36, shortly after his release in the most recent deal, the Russian Embassy in Tel Aviv announced on Thursday.

According to the embassy, Russian Ambassador Anatoly Viktorov met this week with Harkin and his mother, Natalia, and informed them of the decision. The report was first disclosed by Itamar Eichner on Kan 11.

In its statement, the embassy said that “Ambassador Viktorov emphasized that, on the instruction of Russian Federation President Vladimir Putin, focused efforts were undertaken to ensure Maksim’s swift return from captivity in Gaza. Russian diplomats maintained continuous contact with their Israeli counterparts and with all relevant parties on this issue, which was of the highest priority for us.”

Following his release, Harkin reunited with his five-year-old daughter Monica, who lives in Russia, as well as with his mother. Speaking to Ynet, he described the reunion as deeply emotional, saying, “It gives so much strength — a dream that came true. I promised my daughter that I am with her, and I will stay with her.”

Shortly after his release, Harkin’s mother told the Russian news agency RIA that her son had expressed a strong desire to receive Russian citizenship and had planned to complete the process upon his return from captivity.

In his conversation with Ynet, Harkin also addressed the public response to his ordeal, saying, “I’m in an emotional storm from the love I’m receiving from you, the people. It’s important for me to say that unity is an insane achievement — preserve it. Be together, and that’s how we’ll live happily, as we deserve. You see people, what they’re doing for us. I try to hold on to the hope that people gave us.”

{Matzav.com}