The execution of Ukrainian prisoners of war by Russian forces has been increasing since the full-scale invasion began. One harrowing case involved Oleksandr Matsievsky, a Ukrainian sniper who was captured early in the conflict. A video surfaced showing him smoking a cigarette near a grave he had reportedly been forced to dig. His final words, “Glory to Ukraine,” were followed by gunfire as he was executed.
In another instance this October, nine Ukrainian soldiers were reportedly shot in Russia’s Kursk region. One victim, drone operator Ruslan Holubenko, was identified by his mother from a photograph of half-naked bodies, recognizing him by his underwear and a shoulder wound.
Reports have also emerged of beheadings and the use of swords on captured soldiers. A video depicted 16 Ukrainian troops being gunned down after surrendering in a forest. Some of these killings were filmed by Russian forces, while others were recorded by Ukrainian drones.
The Ukrainian Prosecutor-General’s Office reports at least 147 confirmed executions of prisoners of war since the invasion, with 127 occurring this year. Officials suggest these acts are systemic and possibly directed as part of policy, evidenced by rising numbers since late 2023.
Under international law, such executions constitute war crimes. However, there is no indication that Russian authorities are investigating these incidents. In contrast, Ukrainian authorities say they are probing allegations against their forces, though cases remain limited compared to those involving Russian troops.
For many Ukrainian soldiers, the fear of torture and execution drives them to resist surrender. Families of missing soldiers, like Ruslan Holubenko’s mother, hold onto hope despite overwhelming evidence of atrocities.
The situation underscores the brutal reality of the conflict, where international norms are repeatedly violated, leaving families and victims with little recourse for justice.
