A United Nations investigation has concluded that Russia committed crimes against humanity in its war against Ukraine. The findings, compiled by the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, confirm systematic torture, enforced disappearances, and violations of international humanitarian law. The report will be formally presented next week.
Systematic Attacks on Civilians
According to the report, Russian authorities carried out widespread and coordinated attacks on civilians. Large numbers of Ukrainian civilians were detained in Russian-controlled territories and later transferred to detention facilities in occupied Ukraine or Russia. Many victims remain missing for months or years, and some have died in captivity.
The report also highlights that Russian forces systematically withheld information about detainees’ whereabouts, effectively removing them from the protection of the law.
Torture and Sexual Violence in Detention
The UN probe found evidence that prisoners of war were subjected to torture and enforced disappearances. Russian forces allegedly used brutal torture methods during interrogations to extract information, intimidate, and coerce detainees.
Additionally, the report reveals that Russian authorities systematically used sexual violence as a form of torture against male detainees. These acts violate international humanitarian law and constitute war crimes.
Execution of Ukrainian Soldiers
The commission is also investigating multiple incidents where Russian troops executed or wounded captured or surrendering Ukrainian soldiers. Testimonies from Russian deserters suggest an official policy to kill prisoners rather than take them captive.
Ongoing UN Investigation
The UN Human Rights Council launched its highest-level inquiry into the conflict in March 2022, shortly after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The independent commission will formally present its findings before the UN Human Rights Council next Tuesday.
The UN’s findings add to mounting international pressure for accountability and justice for war crimes and human rights violations committed during the Russia-Ukraine war.
