**Russian Forces’ Brutal Treatment of Prisoners Exposed**
A British volunteer who fought alongside Ukraine’s military has spoken out about the horrors faced by Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) in Russian captivity. Macer Gifford, a former fighter in Syria, revealed that his unit adopted a strict rule – never to be taken prisoner alive – due to the cruel treatment meted out by Russian soldiers.
According to Gifford, Russian forces are “incredibly dangerous” and often fanatical or desperate individuals who would torture and kill Ukrainian prisoners if they caught them. This brutal reality has been substantiated by international investigations, which have uncovered systematic torture of Ukrainian POWs. The reports detail beatings, electric shocks, sexual violence, suffocation, sleep deprivation, and mock executions.
**A Deadly Black Market for POWs**
The mistreatment of Ukrainian POWs has led to a staggering number of deaths in Russian captivity. By late 2024, 184 Ukrainian prisoners had died while in custody, including 169 military personnel and 15 civilians. Many more remain missing or in detention, with estimates suggesting around 70,000 Ukrainians are listed as missing under special circumstances, including 2,470 children.
The situation is further complicated by Moscow’s refusal to exchange these prisoners, creating a black market for POWs where desperate families are forced to pay exorbitant sums for information about their loved ones. This inhumane treatment has pushed Gifford and his unit to adopt the strict rule of never surrendering alive, highlighting the extreme desperation and danger faced by Ukrainian soldiers.
**UN Reports Abuses on Both Sides**
While there have been reports of mistreatment of Russian prisoners by Ukrainian forces, international investigations suggest that such abuses typically cease once detainees are transferred to official detention facilities. In contrast, systematic torture has been documented on the Russian side, with some prisoners not surviving their ordeal.
The testimonies of individuals like Macer Gifford serve as a stark reminder of the human cost of war and the need for accountability from warring parties. As investigations continue to shed light on the atrocities committed by Russian forces, it is essential that these findings inform international responses and efforts to bring perpetrators to justice.
**Commentary**
The revelation of Russia’s systematic torture of Ukrainian POWs highlights a grave breach of international humanitarian law. The adoption of a strict rule by Gifford’s unit underscores the extreme desperation faced by soldiers on both sides, but particularly in the context of Russian forces’ actions. As investigations continue, it is crucial that attention is paid to the treatment of all prisoners and the imperative for accountability.
The situation also raises questions about the impact of these atrocities on civilians, including children, who remain missing or in detention. The staggering numbers of missing individuals and POWs are a testament to the human cost of war, emphasizing the need for concerted international efforts to address this crisis and ensure justice is served.
In conclusion, Macer Gifford’s account of Russian forces’ brutal treatment of Ukrainian POWs serves as a chilling reminder of the importance of humanitarian law and accountability in times of conflict. As we continue to navigate the complexities of war, it is essential that we prioritize the protection of civilians and prisoners alike, holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
