Ukrainian prosecutor suggested the recent surge of Russian killings of prisoners of war (POWs) is difficult to view isolated events given their frequent occurrence in various Russian units and areas.
Yuriy Belosov, the head of Ukraine’s prosecutor general’s offices, reported a significant rise in the executions of Ukrainian POWs by Russian forces in 2024. This could indicate a change in Russian policies.
It has been reported that the Russians have executed Ukrainian POWs on a regular basis throughout the war. Ukrainian and international sources including the United Nations indicate that Russian soldiers have repeatedly broken international laws such as the Geneva Convention by executing captured soldiers rather than treating them humanely. The Kremlin has denied that its forces have committed war crimes in Ukraine.
According to The Telegraph, Yuriy Belousov said on local television that 80% (93) of the 93 executions of prisoners recorded since the beginning of the war took place in 2024.
Belousov stated that the killings could be part of Russian policy.
The gruesome videos and images that circulated on social media platforms are now crucial evidence in Ukraine’s investigation.
On 1 October, Russian troops executed 16 Ukrainian POWs at Pokrovsk in Donetsk Oblast. The incident was recorded on video and shows the prisoners being killed after capture. The prosecutor general opened an investigation on what it called the “largest massacre” since the war began. Ukrainian authorities are trying to identify the victims as well as the Russian units responsible.
On 6 October, Russian troops executed three Ukrainian soldiers near the Zaporizhzhia Front who tried to surrender.
In September, the UN revealed that it had found new evidence of widespread and systemic torture by Russian authorities against Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war. Russian authorities use sexual violence against Ukrainian POWs as a form torture. Women in villages under Russian control are also at a higher risk of being raped.
Ukraine’s Defense Ministry reported that thousands of Ukrainian prisoners are still in Russian captivity and at risk.
Thousands of POWs remain unaccounted for. Due to Russia’s lack transparency, the actual death toll may be higher.
A UN mission reported on the torture of over 95% Ukrainian POWs in Russia, including beatings and electric shocks. In addition to the lack of medical care, many detainees are also held in unsanitary conditions.
Azov Brigade reports that 3 Ukrainians surrendered to Russian soldiers and were executed by them
* Ukraine investigates the execution of 16 POWs in Pokrovsk Sector by Russian troops
* Ukraine restricts Russian prisoners of war’s phone privileges as a response to the executions of Ukrainians
* Ukraine investigates execution of POWs near Robotyne by Russian forces
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