Ukraine accuses Russia of systematic torture of prisoners

During an informal United Nations Security Council meeting, former Ukrainian detainees and government officials accused Russia of systematic torture and abuse of prisoners of war and civilian captives. Testimonies included reports of beatings, electric shocks, sexual abuse, starvation, and inadequate living conditions in overcrowded barracks.

One former detainee, Khuan Alberto Levya Garsiya, described being subjected to physical and mental abuse during 1,183 days of captivity, noting that some comrades were beaten to death. Crimean Tatar activist Leniie Umerova also described a “carousel of repression” involving multiple detention facilities. Ukrainian officials stated they have identified more than 300 detention sites in Russia and occupied territories, with thousands of Ukrainians still held in captivity.

Russia rejected the allegations, with Deputy UN Representative Maria Zabolotskaya labeling the claims a “disinformation campaign” and asserting that Russian prisoners in Ukraine have also faced abuse and degradation.