We have found that Russian occupation forces in Khersonska and Zaporizka regions have arbitrarily detained, and in some cases forcibly disappeared, civilians, and unlawfully transferred many to Russian detention facilities where they were tortured. In March 2025, a United Nations investigation concluded that Russian authorities’ use of torture and enforced disappearances amount to crimes against humanity “as part of a widespread and systematic attack against the civilian population and pursuant to a coordinated state policy.” As talks continue around ending Russia’s war against Ukraine, all actors involved in negotiations need to ensure that in line with international law, there can be no amnesty for grave crimes, and that the immediate release of thousands of Ukrainian civilians unlawfully held by Russia is prioritized.
Author: Human Rights Watch
Published at: 2025-05-05 21:45:12
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