Systematic Executions of Ukrainian Prisoners of War by Russian Forces

Evidence has emerged indicating that Russian forces are systematically executing Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs). Major Oleh Shyriaiev, a decorated Ukrainian soldier, reported intercepting communications that include orders from Russian military leaders to kill surrendering troops. He noted that the number of executions has increased significantly over the past year and a half, with at least 147 documented cases since the war began in 2022, all occurring this year. Combat observers corroborate these claims, stating that footage from drones shows Ukrainian servicemen being shot after surrendering.

The IndependentKyiv IndependentEuromaiden Press

Recent reports detail specific incidents of execution. On December 27, 2025, two unarmed Ukrainian servicemen were shot by Russian troops in the village of Shakhove, Donetsk Oblast. The Ukrainian Prosecutor General's Office stated that the soldiers were forced to partially undress at gunpoint before being executed. Another incident occurred on December 20, where three Ukrainian soldiers were killed near Huliaipole in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. These actions have prompted pre-trial investigations into war crimes under Ukrainian law, specifically Article 438, which addresses violations of the laws and customs of war.

Euromaiden PressKyiv IndependentThe Independent

Yuri Belousov, head of the war crimes department at the Ukrainian prosecutor general’s office, emphasized that the rise in executions is not isolated but indicative of a broader policy by Russian forces. The United Nations has also reported an increase in alleged Russian war crimes since mid-November, reinforcing claims of systematic violations of international humanitarian law, particularly the Third Geneva Convention, which protects POWs from execution.

Kyiv Independent

Russian President Vladimir Putin has publicly stated that Ukrainian prisoners are treated in accordance with international law. However, these assertions are contradicted by the growing evidence of war crimes. As peace talks between the U.S. and Ukraine continue, with U.S. President Donald Trump describing them as "terrific," concerns over the treatment of POWs remain a significant issue.

The IndependentKyiv Independent

Human rights organizations and Ukrainian officials have condemned the actions of Russian forces, highlighting the inhumane treatment of POWs. Reports of torture and abuse in Russian captivity have surfaced, with over 2,500 Ukrainian soldiers still imprisoned and little information available regarding their conditions.

Kyiv Independent

While Ukrainian authorities have documented at least 322 cases of executed POWs as of October 2025, discrepancies exist regarding the exact number of incidents and the circumstances surrounding them. The ongoing investigations aim to clarify these details and hold accountable those responsible for these alleged war crimes.

Kyiv Independent

• “The deliberate killing of prisoners of war is a gross violation of the Geneva Conventions and qualifies as a serious international crime,” — Ukrainian Prosecutor General’s Office statement

Euromaiden Press

The situation remains critical as investigations continue and the international community watches closely for developments in the ongoing conflict.

The Independent