Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, harrowing reports of Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) being executed have surfaced, highlighting a grim trend. These executions, captured in chilling videos and photographs, have raised serious concerns about war crimes under international law.
Rising Numbers of POW Executions
The Ukrainian Prosecutor-General’s Office reports at least 147 Ukrainian POWs executed by Russian forces since February 2022, with 127 of these executions occurring in 2023 alone. According to Yuri Belousov, head of the War Department, “Executions became systemic from November last year and have continued throughout this year.” This disturbing pattern suggests a coordinated policy, with evidence indicating that instructions for these executions are being issued.
Among the most notable cases is that of Ukrainian sniper Oleksandr Matsievsky, who was captured early in the invasion. A video shows him defiantly saying, “Glory to Ukraine!” moments before being shot dead. Other reports describe POWs being beheaded or executed with their hands tied behind their backs.
Impunity and Lack of Accountability
International humanitarian law, particularly the Third Geneva Convention, prohibits the execution of prisoners of war. Despite this, there has been no indication that Russia is investigating these war crimes. Even discussing such allegations within Russia is punishable by lengthy prison sentences. In contrast, Ukrainian authorities claim to take similar accusations against their forces seriously and are conducting investigations.
Rachel Denber of Human Rights Watch emphasizes that impunity plays a critical role in these atrocities. “Are Russian commanders ensuring compliance with the Geneva Conventions? If not, they too can be held accountable,” she notes.
The Human Toll of War Crimes
The personal stories behind these executions are heart-wrenching. Ruslan Holubenko, a drone operator, was identified by his distraught mother from a photograph showing half-naked bodies. “I recognized him by his underwear. I bought it for him before a trip to the sea,” she said, clinging to hope that he might still be alive despite the evidence.
For many Ukrainian soldiers, the fear of torture outweighs the risk of capture. Holubenko’s mother recalls her son’s words: “Mum, I’ll never surrender. Forgive me, but I don’t want to be tortured.”
International Response
While Ukrainian prosecutors and international organizations continue to gather evidence, calls for accountability grow louder. The lack of Russian investigations into these war crimes only adds to the urgency of international scrutiny.
- External Link: BBC
- Internal Link: Eurasia Sports
