**Ukrainian Citizens on Hunger Strike at Russia-Georgia Border**
A group of five Ukrainian citizens have taken a desperate measure to protest their treatment by Georgian border guards. The individuals, who have been stranded at the “Darial” border checkpoint for about a month, have announced an indefinite hunger strike.
According to Sergei Larko, one of the strikers, the action is in response to the actions of Georgian border guards. In an interview with “Echo of the Caucasus,” Larko explained that the protesters intend to formally notify the guards about their decision to go on hunger strike.
**Inhumane Conditions and Unlawful Detention**
The statement released by Larko highlights the reasons for the hunger strike and the demands of the strikers. He writes about being denied entry into Georgia, access to legal assistance, and the ability to appeal his detention. The conditions at the “Darial” border checkpoint are described as inhumane, with 97 people, including those infected with HIV and tuberculosis, being held in the same area.
Larko was deported from Russia on June 21, 2025, and upon arriving in Georgia, his passport was confiscated, and his biometric information was collected without legal grounds. The hunger strikers are demanding access to a Ukrainian consul, an explanation of the reasons for their detention, and the opportunity to leave Georgia’s territory or apply for international protection.
**Backstory: Kremlin’s Transfer Policy**
It is worth noting that the situation is linked to the Kremlin’s policy of transferring prisoners from Ukraine to Russia. In most cases, these individuals were serving sentences in Russian penitentiary institutions after being forcibly transferred by the Russians. The move has been widely criticized as a form of punishment and harassment.
**Human Rights Concerns**
The hunger strike raises serious human rights concerns. The right to life, liberty, and security of person are fundamental principles enshrined in international law. The treatment of these Ukrainian citizens at the “Darial” border checkpoint and their subsequent detention without due process is a clear violation of these rights.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Georgian authorities will respond to the demands of the hunger strikers. Will they take concrete steps to address the concerns raised by Larko and his fellow citizens, or will they continue to ignore their pleas for justice?
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