**Russia’s War on Ukrainian Journalists: “A Crime of Genocide”**
In the midst of Russia’s brutal war against Ukraine, another crisis is unfolding – a crisis involving Ukrainian journalists who have been captured and detained by Russian forces. According to the Institute of Mass Information (IMI), over 30 journalists remain in captivity, with some having been held for years.
The story of Vika, a young journalist who died just one year after being released from captivity, is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by Ukrainian journalists. Her case highlights the consequences of Russia’s actions and the importance of press freedom.
International law prohibits the capture and exchange of civilians for prisoners of war, yet Russian forces have continued to detain Ukrainian journalists, including those who were kidnapped, attacked, or detained in 2014 during the annexation of Crimea and the start of the war in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts.
The IMI reports that over 100 journalists, both Ukrainian and foreign, have been detained by Russia since 2014. While some have been released, many others remain captive, including Crimean Tatar journalists who were detained on trumped-up charges of espionage.
**A Crime of Genocide?**
According to Oksana Romaniuk, head of IMI, the detention and imprisonment of Ukrainian journalists is a crime that can be classified as genocide. This classification reflects the severity of Russia’s actions and the devastating impact they have had on the lives of these individuals and their families.
**The Struggle for Release**
Ukrainian journalist Maksym Butkevych was released from captivity in October 2022, but his story highlights the complexity and difficulty of securing the release of journalists held by Russian forces. Despite efforts to secure his release, it was a complete surprise when he was finally freed.
**A Call to Action**
As we continue to tell the stories of those affected by Russia’s war on Ukraine, we also remember the importance of press freedom and the role that journalists play in documenting historical moments.
By becoming a member of the Kyiv Independent, you can help us continue telling the truth about this war and supporting the brave journalists who risk their lives to bring it to light.
