**Russia Accused of Executing 273 Ukrainian POWs, Says Prosecutor General’s Office**
In a shocking revelation, Ukrainian prosecutors have documented cases of Russian forces summarily executing at least 273 Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs). The Liga.net news outlet reported this disturbing development, citing a statement from the Prosecutor General’s Office. This alarming trend has raised serious concerns among Kyiv and the United Nations, who argue that it points to a systematic policy by Russia to murder Ukrainian captives.
**Half of Documented Cases Recorded in 2025**
According to the statement, half of the documented cases were recorded this year alone. This staggering number highlights the gravity of the situation on the ground. The fact that such atrocities have been committed on a large scale is deeply disturbing and warrants immediate attention from the international community.
**Justice Eludes Victims, Convictions Remain Rare**
Seventy-seven criminal cases have been launched in connection with the killings of POWs, but only two people have been convicted, and a trial against a third person is ongoing. This woefully low conviction rate suggests that justice has not been served for these victims or their families.
**War Crimes convictions on the Rise**
A total of 188 people have been convicted of various war crimes, including 18 captured Russian soldiers and one civilian, who were convicted in person. However, it’s worth noting that most of these convictions were issued in absentia, which raises questions about the fairness and transparency of the judicial process.
**Ukrainian Military Intelligence Documents Over 150 Cases**
Earlier this week, Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets reported a case of likely murder of a Ukrainian POW who was apparently tied to a motorcycle by Russian soldiers and dragged along the road. Ukraine’s military intelligence agency (HUR) had previously documented over 150 cases of Ukrainian soldiers being executed after surrendering to Russian forces.
**United Nations Investigation Confirms Russian Atrocities**
The United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine confirmed in March growing numbers of incidents in which Russian forces killed or maimed surrendering Ukrainian troops. This independent investigation highlights the urgent need for a thorough and transparent probe into these heinous crimes.
**Investigation Underway into 2022 Olenivka Prison Killings**
A separate Ukrainian investigation is underway into the killing of around 50 Ukrainian POWs in the Russian-run Olenivka prison in 2022. Kyiv blamed the killings on Russia, but Moscow denied responsibility, claiming the explosion was caused by a Ukrainian HIMARS strike—a version U.N. investigators have rejected.
**Russia’s Denials Fuel Frustration**
The fact that Russia has blocked an independent investigation and denied any wrongdoing only adds to the frustration and outrage felt by many in Ukraine. The internal U.N. analysis that concluded Russia was responsible for the 2022 Olenivka prison explosion serves as a stark reminder of the need for accountability.
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