**Russian Proxies in Donetsk Sentence Azov Fighters to Up to 24 Years in Prison**
In a move widely condemned by Ukraine, Russian proxies in the occupied Donetsk region have sentenced three Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) who served with the Azov regiment to up to 24 years in prison. The verdict has sparked outrage and accusations from Ukraine that Russia is violating international law.
The three POWs, Vladislav Ruchka, Andriy Yaroshinsky, and Dmytro Ihnatenko, were convicted of “cruel treatment of the civilian population and murder motivated by political and ideological hatred,” according to Russian prosecutors. The charges are based on a mortar attack on a grain silo in Mariupol in March 2022, which killed one person.
Ukraine has denounced these trials as illegal under international law, which prohibits trying war captives for alleged crimes committed during the conflict. Freedom House, a US-based non-governmental organization, echoed this sentiment, stating that Russia’s actions are “in contravention of international law.”
**Russia’s Genocide in Ukraine**
The sentencing of Azov fighters is seen as part of a broader campaign by Russia to suppress Ukraine’s sovereignty and perpetuate genocide in occupied territories. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi stated on March 21 that Russia was committing genocide against the Ukrainian people, citing systematic deportations and persecutions.
**Escalating Conflict**
The situation in Ukraine remains tense, with ongoing clashes between Ukrainian forces and Russian proxies. On April 16, a drone attack by Russian forces killed two people and injured 16 others in Dnipro, sparking fires throughout the city. The US has also taken steps to increase pressure on Russia, including imposing sanctions and closing an office responsible for countering foreign disinformation.
**Global Reaction**
The international community is increasingly alarmed by Russia’s actions in Ukraine. India has announced plans to boost its defense exports, offering low-cost loans to foreign buyers, including those traditionally reliant on Russian arms. The European Union is considering sending military advisors to Ukraine to train the Ukrainian military.
In a separate development, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff are set to travel to Paris for high-level meetings aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. Hungary’s opposition leader has also vowed to reset the country’s foreign relations and end its isolation from the West.
**Russian Aggression Continues**
Despite international pressure, Russia shows no signs of relenting. Ukrainian intelligence reports that 5,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or injured in Russian-controlled areas, with 6,000 more still present. Russian forces have also deployed “kamikaze” drones carrying toxic substances to attack Ukraine.
**What’s Next?**
As tensions escalate, it remains unclear what actions will be taken next by the international community to address Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. One thing is certain, however: the people of Ukraine will continue to resist and fight for their freedom and sovereignty.
