Surge in executions of Ukrainian POWs potentially link to changed Russian policy
Ukrainian prosecutor suggested that the recent surge in prisoner of war (POW) killings by the Russians is difficult to view as isolated events, given their frequent occurrence across various Russian units and regions.
Ukraine’s head of the prosecutor general’s office, Yuriy Belousov, reported a significant increase in executions of Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) by Russian forces in 2024, potentially indicating a change in Russian policy.
The execution of Ukrainian POWs by Russian forces has been reported as a widespread and systemic issue throughout the ongoing war. Ukrainian and international sources, including the United Nations, indicate that Russian soldiers have repeatedly violated international laws, such as the Geneva Convention, by executing captured soldiers instead of treating them humanely. The Kremlin denies that its forces committed war crimes in Ukraine.
Yuriy Belousov revealed on local TV that 80% of the 93 prisoner executions recorded since the start of the war occurred in 2024, according to The Telegraph.
“It could indicate the killings are part of Russian policy,” Belousov said.
Gruesome videos and photos circulating on social media platforms have become crucial evidence in Ukraine’s investigations.
On 1 October, Russian forces executed 16 Ukrainian POWs in Pokrovsk, Donetsk Oblast. The prisoners were from two Ukrainian units, and the incident was captured on video, which shows them being killed after capture. The prosecutor general’s office has opened an investigation into what it calls the “largest mass execution” since the full-scale war began. Ukrainian authorities are working to identify the victims and responsible Russian units.
On 6 October, Russian soldiers executed three Ukrainian soldiers who attempted to surrender near the Zaporizhzhia front.
In September, the UN also revealed finding fresh evidence of widespread and systematic torture committed by Russian authorities against Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war (POWs). Russian authorities systematically use sexual violence as a form of torture against Ukrainian POWs. Women in Russian-controlled villages also face a heightened risk of rape.
Ukraine’s defense ministry reported that at least 177 Ukrainian prisoners have died in Russian captivity, with thousands more at risk.
Around 3,600 POWs have been returned, but thousands remain missing. The actual death toll is likely higher due to Russia’s lack of transparency.
A UN mission reported that over 95% of Ukrainian POWs held in Russia experience torture, including beatings, electric shocks, and psychological abuse. Many detainees also face insufficient medical care and unsanitary conditions, further compounding their suffering.
Related:
- Russian soldiers execute 3 surrendering Ukrainians, reports Azov Brigade
- Ukraine probes execution of 16 POWs by Russian troops in Pokrovsk sector
- Ukraine restricts Russian POWs’ phone privileges in response to executions of Ukrainians
- Ukraine probes execution of POWs by Russian forces near Robotyne
