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Reports from Ukraine reveal ongoing challenges related to prisoners of war (POWs). Ukrainian authorities have launched investigations into the alleged torture of POWs by Russian forces, emphasizing the severe violations of international law. Additionally, Ukrainian soldiers captured in Kursk are facing terrorism charges, complicating their legal situation. Meanwhile, significant prisoner exchanges between Ukraine and Russia have been conducted, with many POWs returning home with significant physical and psychological wounds. Ukrainian intelligence recently intercepted orders suggesting systemic torture, highlighting the harsh realities faced by POWs. Continuous dialogue and negotiations remain crucial in addressing these humanitarian challenges and ensuring the humane treatment of all POWs involved.

What is the current situation regarding Ukrainian POWs in Russian captivity?

The situation for Ukrainian POWs in Russian captivity remains dire, with numerous reports of torture and inhumane treatment surfacing. Many Ukrainian soldiers face charges such as terrorism, further complicating their legal and personal situations. Efforts are ongoing to secure their release through diplomatic negotiations.

How is Ukraine addressing the treatment of its POWs in Russia?

The Ukrainian government is actively pursuing investigations and gathering evidence of torture and mistreatment of its POWs in Russia. Diplomatic efforts are underway to ensure their humane treatment, and international bodies have been approached for support in resolving these violations of international law.

What are the recent developments in prisoner exchanges between Ukraine and Russia?

Recent developments in prisoner exchanges have resulted in the release of numerous POWs from both sides. The exchanges occur as part of ongoing negotiations aimed at addressing the humanitarian needs of those affected. Both military personnel and civilians have been involved, with many requiring medical attention upon their return.

How does the treatment of POWs affect international relations between Ukraine and Russia?

The treatment of POWs significantly impacts international relations, highlighting violations of human rights and affecting diplomatic negotiations. The harsh treatment of prisoners and failure to adhere to international conventions strain the already tense relations between Ukraine and Russia, drawing condemnation from global entities.

What role do international organizations play in the POW situation in Ukraine and Russia?

International organizations, including the OSCE and the United Nations, play a crucial role in monitoring the situation and advocating for the humane treatment of POWs. They facilitate dialogue, provide humanitarian support, and ensure adherence to international laws, attempting to mediate and find resolutions to ongoing humanitarian challenges.

What evidence has been found regarding the treatment of Ukrainian POWs by Russian forces?

Evidence including intercepted communications, eyewitness testimonies, and investigative reports have documented inhumane practices such as torture, lack of medical care, and orders for execution. These findings underscore severe violations of international humanitarian law, prompting investigations and diplomatic pressure.

How are the legal proceedings for Ukrainian POWs held in Russia progressing?

Legal proceedings for Ukrainian POWs in Russia remain complex and slow, with many soldiers facing serious charges like terrorism. Diplomatic and legal efforts are actively pursued by Ukraine to contest these charges and secure fair trials, though challenges with the Russian judicial system persist.

What strategies are used for the exchange of POWs between Ukraine and Russia?

Strategies for exchanging POWs between Ukraine and Russia involve high-level negotiations facilitated by international and regional agreements. The exchanges often focus on the critically wounded and younger soldiers, with ongoing dialogue aimed at expanding the scale and scope of these humanitarian actions under difficult circumstances.

How have these POW events impacted Ukrainian society?

The POW events have had a profound impact on Ukrainian society, evoking sentiments of solidarity and national resilience. The return of POWs is celebrated, yet the harsh realities of torture and unjust charges bring to light the need for sustained advocacy and international support. Families remain hopeful and engaged in efforts to reunite with loved ones.

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News POWs

Russia must return, not swap arrested Ukrainian sailors to Ukraine Russia must return, not swap arrested Ukrainian sailors to Ukraine The exchange between Kyiv and Moscow of arrested or convicted citizens does not apply to the 24 Ukrainian naval sailors who were detained in the Kerch Strait area in late 2018 and are under arrest in Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi said. 7 825 119 Previously in trend: Azov Sea blockade

Zelenskyi, Merkel hold phone talks on Donbas Zelenskyi, Merkel hold phone talks on Donbas President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyi has discussed with German Chancellor Angela Merkel over the phone ways to further accelerate peaceful settlement in Donbas. 3 554 97 Previously in trend: Ukrainian hostages in Russia

Klimkin: Putin uses sailors as bargaining chip Klimkin: Putin uses sailors as bargaining chip Putin will fulfill the decision of the UN Tribunal and release 24 Ukrainian sailors soon, but not that simple. 2 567 50 Previously in trend: Ukrainian hostages in Russia

Mogherini: EU supports Zelenskyi Mogherini: EU supports Zelenskyi's idea of inclusive approach toward Ukrainians living in occupied territories The high representative and the president discussed the possible way forward with the full implementation of the Minsk agreements by all sides, while recalling the responsibility of Russia in this regard. 2 233 20 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine Azov Sea blockade

Internal investigation into eight MIA soldiers reveals no evidence of treason Internal investigation into eight MIA soldiers reveals no evidence of treason Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi has received a report about the circumstances in which eight soldiers of a motorized infantry battalion of the 53rd Separate Mechanized Brigade were taken prisoner last week by Russia-occupation forces in Donetsk. 13 178 86 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine

Kremlin not to execute Tribunal Kremlin not to execute Tribunal's decision on release of Ukrainian sailors International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea wants Russia to release Ukrainian sailors till June 25. 18 365 193 Previously in trend: Azov Sea blockade

Russia refuses to attend ITLOS hearing on Ukrainian seamen, - Deputy Foreign Minister Russia refuses to attend ITLOS hearing on Ukrainian seamen, - Deputy Foreign Minister Russia has said that it will not attend a hearing of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) in the case on the application of provisional measures concerning the immunity of three Ukrainian naval vessels and their crew members. 6 072 35 Previously in trend: Azov Sea blockade

US embassy appalled by Russian court US embassy appalled by Russian court's decision to extend detention of Ukrainian sailors The United States has called for the immediate return of servicemen and vessels to Ukraine. 4 884 9 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine Ukrainian hostages in Russia Azov Sea blockade

Case of captured Ukrainian sailors beyond jurisdiction of UN Tribunal, - Russia Case of captured Ukrainian sailors beyond jurisdiction of UN Tribunal, - Russia's Foreign Ministry The Russian Foreign Ministry states the UN International Tribunal has no jurisdiction in the case regarding the Russian attack on Ukrainian sailors near the Kerch Strait on November 25. 15 783 166 Previously in trend: Azov Sea blockade

Poroshenko: Ukraine asked International Tribunal to make Russia free captured sailors Poroshenko: Ukraine asked International Tribunal to make Russia free captured sailors Ukraine has applied to the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) to force Russia to release our sailors, President Petro Poroshenko posts on Facebook. 6 316 149 Previously in trend: Azov Sea blockade

EU representatives to visit court hearings on captured Ukrainian sailors in Russia. PHOTOS EU representatives to visit court hearings on captured Ukrainian sailors in Russia. PHOTOS All the representatives of the European countries, who are in Russia, will be present at the court sessions on selecting the preventive measures to Ukrainian POWs. 1 999 31 Previously in trend: Azov Sea blockade

Polozov: All 24 captive Ukrainian sailors to undergo psychiatric examination Polozov: All 24 captive Ukrainian sailors to undergo psychiatric examination Russian investigators have appointed a complex comprehensive outpatient psychological and psychiatric examination for all 24 Ukrainian servicemen captured by the Russian FSB Security Service near the Kerch Strait, who are now being held in the Moscow-based Lefortovo detention facility. 1 167 18 Previously in trend: Azov Sea blockade

Ukrainian consuls to visit Russia-captured sailors, - Foreign Ministry Ukrainian consuls to visit Russia-captured sailors, - Foreign Ministry The meeting with sailors will take place on March 13-15 in the Lefortovo prison. 787 5 Previously in trend: Azov Sea blockade

US, EU might impose new sanctions on Russia for actions in Kerch Strait, - Volker US, EU might impose new sanctions on Russia for actions in Kerch Strait, - Volker Russia has extended the arrest of Ukrainian sailors at least until Ukraine presidential elections are finished. U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine Negotiations Kurt Volker says that the sailors might be used as a tool for political pressure. 3 036 29 Previously in trend: Sanctions against Russia Azov Sea blockade

PACE passes resolution on Russia’s aggression in Sea of Azov PACE passes resolution on Russia’s aggression in Sea of Azov Parliamentary assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) has supported the resolution on escalation in the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait. 11 341 80 Previously in trend: Azov Sea blockade

Russia court extends arrest for all captive Ukraine sailors and SBU officers Russia court extends arrest for all captive Ukraine sailors and SBU officers The Moscow Lefortovo Court extended the arrest of four remaining captive Ukrainian sailors until April 24, 2019. 5 641 45 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine Ukrainian hostages in Russia Azov Sea blockade

Russia court extends arrest for 12 captive Ukraine sailors until Apr. 24 Russia court extends arrest for 12 captive Ukraine sailors until Apr. 24 The Moscow Lefortovo Court extended the arrest for 12 captive Ukrainian sailors until April 24, 2019. 3 635 25 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine Azov Sea blockade

Kerch Strait crisis: closed hearing to extend arrest of Ukraine sailors started in Moscow. VIDEO Kerch Strait crisis: closed hearing to extend arrest of Ukraine sailors started in Moscow. VIDEO The Moscow Lefortovo Court behind the closed doors started considering motions for extension of the arrest of Ukrainian sailors detained in the Kerch Strait area on November 25, 2018. 3 192 18 Previously in trend: Azov Sea blockade

US, EU may stiffen sanctions on Russia amid Kerch Strait crisis, Envoy Volker says US, EU may stiffen sanctions on Russia amid Kerch Strait crisis, Envoy Volker says U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine Negotiations Kurt Volker says the U.S. and European countries may beef up sanctions against Russia or impose additional ones over captured Ukrainian sailors and seizure of vessels. 5 113 43 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine Azov Sea blockade Russia imposes sanctions on Ukraine

Ukraine Ukraine's president announces package of 'Azov sanctions': "Russia will pay high price for its aggression" President Petro Poroshenko says Ukraine is preparing claims to international judicial institutions in response to the act of aggression against Ukrainian ships. 18 833 221 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine Sanctions against Russia Azov Sea blockade

British PM May on Kerch Strait crisis: Russia must release Ukrainian boats, sailors; UK to keep pushing for "appropriate sanctions" British PM May on Kerch Strait crisis: Russia must release Ukrainian boats, sailors; UK to keep pushing for "appropriate sanctions" Britain would continue to push for "appropriate sanctions" against Russia in relation to its behavior. 5 983 44 Previously in trend: Sanctions against Russia Azov Sea blockade

Crimea-based occupation court remands two captured Ukrainian sailors in pre-trial custody Crimea-based occupation court remands two captured Ukrainian sailors in pre-trial custody The invaders’ rubber-stamp "Kyiv district court of Simferopol" placed two Ukrainian sailors in 60-day pre-trial custody. 12 727 71 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine Azov Sea blockade

савченко “DPR” militants say Ukraine’s MP Savchenko, negotiator Ruban come to occupied territories "to visit Ukrainian POWs" The militants of the so-called "Donetsk People’s Republic" aka “DPR” say head of the Ukrainian center for liberation of prisoners Volodymyr Ruban and independent member of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Nadiia Savchenko arrived at the occupied part of the Donetsk region. 117 451 272 Incidents

Rada allows POWs to retain salaries in full The Ukrainian parliament has passed a bill allowing captive servicemen to retain their wages. 4 232 10 Ukrainian Politics

Ukraine starkly raised question of hostages. Swap lists handed over, - Olifer on Trilateral Contact Group meeting results The security situation in the Donbas does not improve but, on the contrary, radically deteriorates. 13 049 36 Ukrainian Politics

плен "Alive. Forgotten. Captive," - relatives of Kirovohrad fighters seek their release for 481 days. PHOTOS It has been 481 days since relatives of captive Ukrainian soldiers from the 3rd Separate Spetsnaz Regiment are struggling to get their loved ones released. 35 923 86 Ukrainian Politics

All prisoners on both sides held in Donbas should be released, - Putin The work on the transfer of Donbas prisoners goes on. All the prisoners on both sides should be released. 33 082 124 Ukrainian Politics

Terrorists thwarted negotiations on freeing captives by Easter, - Iryna Herashchenko Trying to ban Iryna Herashchenko from entering Belarus is a result of Kremlin's desire to distract the world from the release of captives. 12 297 44 Ukrainian Politics

About 110 hostages kept by terrorists in Donbas, – Tandit There are more than 110 hostages kept by the terrorists in the Donbas at the moment. 2 965 24 Ukrainian Politics

плен Three Ukrainians released from terrorists' captivity, - Poroshenko (updated). PHOTOS Three Ukrainians were released from captivity today, Feb. 26. 16 705 22 Ukrainian Politics

Tortures of hostages stopped due to Minsk groups – Iryna Herashchenko The ‘DPR’ and ‘LPR’ militants have stopped to torture Ukrainian hostages due to the actions of the contact groups. 5 948 57 Ukrainian Politics

плен "I've survived by miracle. My comrades were killed on the spot," - released Ukrainian soldiers speak about tortures in terrorists’ captivity. VIDEO Ukrainian servicemen liberated yesterday told about their expectations from freedom and the conditions in the militants’ captivity. 98 475 40 Ukrainian Politics

плен Four Ukrainian heroes released from terrorists' captivity – Poroshenko. PHOTOS Four Ukrainian soldiers have been released from captivity of the terrorists. 53 508 115 Ukrainian Politics

Five soldiers captured last year in Lohvynove still held by terrorists. LIST A year ago, soldiers of the 40th Mechanized Infantry Battalion and the 128th Mountain Infantry Brigade were captured by terrorists. 9 048 22 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine

tandit Terrorists may not execute Ukrainian prisoners, – Tandit Statements by ‘DPR’ and ‘LPR’ representatives about possible ‘executions’ of captured Ukrainian soldiers are intended to blackmail Kyiv during the Minsk agreements and negotiations on prisoner exchange. 40 835 152 Ukrainian Politics

Pro-Russian militants block liberation of 25 Ukrainian prisoners from captivity – Iryna Herashchenko Those soldiers who have survived the hell of the Donetsk airport are still in the terrorists’ captivity. 6 067 32 Ukrainian Politics

Poroshenko calls for releasing all Ukrainian hostages illegally held by Russia and its militants in Donbas President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko held a phone conversation with the leaders of Germany, France and Russian Federation and highlighted the necessity of providing immediate access to the occupied territories for all international humanitarian missions, inter alia, the International Committee of the Red Cross and Doctors without Borders. 4 741 78 Previously in trend: Ukrainian hostages in Russia

плен Release of Ukrainian prisoners by militants is decided by Kremlin; they are political hostages, - Tandit The Ukrainian side hopes that the process of prisoners' release will continue. 17 884 38 Ukrainian Politics

Some Ukrainian MIAs may turn out Russian POWs, - SBU head adviser Tandit Ukrainian soldiers listed as missing in action in the Donbas may be held in Russia. 15 595 23 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine

военные российские александров ерофеев спецназовцы Captive Russian GRU operatives Aleksandrov and Yerofeyev ask court to recognize them prisoners of war The Supreme Administrative Court of Ukraine has received a claim from the defense of commandos of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation (GRU) Alexander Aleksandrov and Yevgeniy Yerofeyev to recognize them as prisoners of war. 47 244 498 Previously in trend: Captured Russian special forces operatives

обмен пленными Ukraine exchanged 11 militants for 8 Ukrainian soldiers and one civilian. PHOTOS "Luhansk People's Republic" militants assure they have no more prisoners. According to the released soldiers, another 20 Ukrainian prisoners are held captive in Donetsk. 44 138 91 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine

геращенко Terrorists publicly blackmail Ukraine on prisoners' release, which is failure to fulfill Minsk agreements, - MP Herashchenko According to the Minsk accords, pro-Russian terrorists in the Donbas should release captive Ukrainian soldiers without setting additional conditions. 32 040 132 Ukrainian Politics

Medvedchuk mediated between ‘LPR’, ‘DPR’, and Ukrainian government Viktor Medvedchuk is a Ukrainian politician, lawyer, business oligarch, the chairman of the pro-Russian political organization Ukrainian Choice, and one of the major opponents of European Integration of Ukraine who stands between Ukraine and pro-Russian terrorists. 8 696 87 Ukrainian Politics

плен обмен освобождение военослужащие Poroshenko: 12 Ukrainian servicemen liberated from terrorists’ captivity 12 Ukrainian military have been freed from terrorists’ captivity. 47 570 114 Incidents

European diplomats intend to be present at Savchenko trial - lawyer Diplomats from EU countries intend to be present at the trial of Ukrainian pilot Nadiya Savchenko in the Russian town of Donetsk. 5 975 70 Incidents

Negotiations on POW exchange to continue on Monday Exchange of prisoners was not completed as the release group saw a security threat for Ukrainian prisoners of war held by the militants. 4 687 69 Ukrainian Politics

плен 177 Ukrainians held captive by terrorists, - SBU Head Adviser Tandit 177 citizens of Ukraine are held prisoners at the moment in the self-proclaimed "LPR," "DPR," and in Russia. 6 276 19 Ukrainian Politics

Freed Ukrainian soldiers described their captivity: "There were only questions and interrogations" Three Ukrainian soldiers captured last winter near the Donetsk airport were freed from captivity past night. Ukrainian soldiers described how they had been interrogated by terrorists. 32 855 66 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine