**Dutch Minister Calls for Probe into Russian Torture of Ukrainian POWs**
The Netherlands and 40 other countries have joined forces to demand a thorough investigation into the alleged torture and mistreatment of Ukrainian prisoners of war by Russian forces. Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp made this announcement on July 24, emphasizing the need for accountability in the face of widespread human rights abuses.
**Calling for Truth and Justice**
Veldkamp stated that invoking the OSCE’s “Moscow Mechanism” would contribute to uncovering the truth about Russian war crimes in Ukraine. This mechanism allows member states to request investigations into potential human rights violations committed by other members. In this case, the Netherlands, United Kingdom, and several other countries have invoked the Moscow Mechanism to address the ill treatment of Ukrainian POWs held by Russia.
**Eyewitness Accounts and UN Reports**
According to reports from Ukrainian officials and human rights groups, Ukrainian prisoners of war have been subjected to torture, physical abuse, and inhumane treatment while in Russian custody. Survivors have shared accounts of beatings, starvation, and psychological coercion during captivity. A report published by the United Nations in 2024 highlighted Russia’s “systematic” and “widespread” use of torture against Ukrainian POWs.
**A Growing Body of Evidence**
The formal OSCE investigation would add to the growing body of evidence documenting Russian war crimes in Ukraine. The Kyiv Independent has documented numerous accounts of Russian forces torturing both civilians and military personnel since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion. This initiative demonstrates the international community’s commitment to truth-finding and accountability for these grave human rights abuses.
**A Global Response**
The OSCE, comprising 57 member countries, plays a crucial role in promoting security-related issues such as arms control, human rights, conflict prevention, democratization, and environmental cooperation. By invoking the Moscow Mechanism, the Netherlands and partnering countries are sending a clear message that they will not tolerate such atrocities and demand justice for those affected.
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