Full Breakdown
Alleged Executions of Ukrainian Prisoners of War by Russian Forces
7/15/2026, 4:37:17 AM
Core Event
Ukrainian authorities allege that Russian forces have executed hundreds of Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022. The most recent case involves 25-year-old Andriy Dubnytsky of the 110th brigade, who was wounded while retreating from Avdiivka in February 2024 and later identified in a video showing five bodies in a frozen puddle. Ukrainian prosecutors have opened investigations into the “shooting of unarmed Ukrainian prisoners of war,” asserting that the killings violate the Geneva Conventions’ protections for surrendered combatants.
Background & Context
The conflict has repeatedly raised concerns about compliance with international humanitarian law. Under the Geneva Conventions, soldiers who clearly surrender are entitled to POW status and protection from violence. Ukraine has long accused Russian troops of breaching these rules, while Moscow has consistently denied the allegations and accused Kyiv of committing similar crimes.
Data & Statistics
- A United Nations report released in June 2025 verified 129 executions of Ukrainian POWs.
- The Ukrainian Prosecutor-General’s Office has opened 116 investigations covering the deaths of 306 servicemen since 2022.
- Ukrainian intelligence officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, say they have tracked more than 900 military personnel killed in over 340 incidents since the war’s outset, estimating that these figures represent 25 % to 40 % of all such cases.
- Only five Russian soldiers have been convicted in Ukraine for crimes related to POW executions, two of them in absentia.
Official Statements & Responses
Ukrainian Prosecutor-General’s Office official Andriy Atamantchuk said the pattern reflects a Russian policy that “has effectively encouraged and enabled such crimes, with commanders then issuing orders to that effect.” He added that the total number of victims is likely far higher than documented. The United Nations, in its June 2025 report, warned of a “marked increase” in verified executions. Russian authorities have not responded to requests for comment.
Criticism & Opposition
Ukrainian officials contend that the executions constitute a deliberate policy by Moscow, citing the role of the Wagner paramilitary group—disbanded after its 2023 rebellion—in “setting the tone” for such crimes. They argue that most victims are shot, though some videos show extreme brutality, including beheadings. The lack of access to combat zones hampers thorough investigations, a point repeatedly emphasized by Ukrainian prosecutors.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Numbers differ across sources due to methodological variations: the prosecutor’s office relies on “documented and proven facts,” while intelligence services incorporate faster, frontline reports. The exact total of executed POWs remains unknown, and independent verification is limited by restricted access to occupied territories.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This stems from a Russian policy that has effectively encouraged and enabled such crimes, with commanders then issuing orders to that effect,” — Andriy Atamantchuk, Ukrainian Prosecutor-General’s Office
- “I don’t know how that would give me any relief, even if I knew one day who did it.” — Lyudmyla Dubnytska, widow of Andriy Dubnytsky
- “he was extremely nervous and was crying” — Lyudmyla Dubnytska, describing her husband’s last call
- “He has not lost hope that he may some day “do justice” to the families – if only by giving them “the names of those who killed their loved ones”.” — Andriy Atamantchuk, Ukrainian Prosecutor-General’s Office
Ongoing Investigations
Ukrainian prosecutors continue to pursue cases against alleged perpetrators, while international bodies monitor the situation. The disparity in reported figures and limited on-the-ground access underscore the challenges of establishing accountability for alleged war crimes.
