More than 10,000 peaceful Ukrainians have been detained by Russian forces in occupied territories and within the Russian Federation itself, with evidence of torture experienced by 5,600 individuals emerging from criminal proceedings. However, the actual numbers are suspected to be significantly higher.
This information comes directly from Andriy Kostin, the Prosecutor General of Ukraine, during an interview with the agency Interfax-Ukraine.
Efforts to Address the Crisis
"There are different figures. We estimate in the tens of thousands, more than 10,000 for sure. This only accounts for those who were forcibly resettled, excluding those who chose to leave on their own," Kostin stated.
The Ukrainian government is reportedly working on creating a registry of civilian prisoners, a step Kostin believes could be bolstered by a resolution from the UN General Assembly. Such a resolution would enable the use of additional communication and pressure tactics on Russia to release Ukrainian civilians and ensure their safe return.
Kostin also mentioned the ongoing efforts of Ukrainian prosecutors and law enforcement to hold accountable those responsible for the deportation and illegal detention of civilians in the territories occupied by Russian forces and within Russia itself.
Addressing the distinction between voluntary movement and compulsion, Kostin emphasized that the concept of voluntary relocation does not apply in the context of occupied territories. He explained that individuals are often forced to move due to shelling or lured with false promises of material aid and security. For many, returning to Ukraine entails traversing through Russia, with numerous cases reported.
Regarding the torture and inhumane treatment of detainees, Kostin revealed that criminal proceedings have identified 5,600 Ukrainians as victims of such war crimes by the Russian Federation.
"However, the actual figures may be much higher since we lack reliable information from the occupied territories," he added.
Finally, Kostin disclosed that 164 torture chambers and other forced detention sites in previously occupied territories have been documented, highlighting the extensive human rights violations occurring in these areas.
