**Russian Forces Execute Two Ukrainian Prisoners of War**
A horrific incident has been reported near the village of Udachne, 12 kilometers (7 miles) west of Pokrovsk in Donetsk Oblast. According to Ukraine’s Prosecutor General’s Office, Russian forces have executed two Ukrainian prisoners of war during an assault on May 22.
The prosecutors revealed that four Ukrainian soldiers were taken prisoner during the attack, but unfortunately, only two of them were later found dead with bullet wounds in a nearby forest. The fate of the other two soldiers remains unknown. This heinous act is not only a gross violation of international law but also a serious crime.
**A Gross Violation of International Law**
The Geneva Conventions, which are universally accepted and respected, prohibit the execution of prisoners of war. Russia’s actions in this case are a clear breach of these conventions, and Ukraine’s military and law enforcement agencies have launched an investigation to identify those responsible for this atrocity.
**A Pattern of War Crimes**
This incident follows a disturbing pattern of war crimes committed by Russian forces during the ongoing conflict. Ukrainian authorities have documented 177 cases of execution after capture, which is a staggering number that highlights the need for accountability and justice.
**Visual Evidence and Forensic Records Confirm Atrocities**
The execution of prisoners of war has been corroborated by visual evidence and forensic records, which further underscores the systematic nature of these crimes. Ukraine’s Ombudsman has also reacted to allegations of Russian forces executing Ukrainian soldiers after capture.
**A Grave Breach of International Humanitarian Law**
The Geneva Conventions classify summary executions of detainees as grave breaches of international humanitarian law. Russia’s actions in this case are a stark reminder of the need for respect and adherence to these conventions, which aim to protect civilians and prisoners of war from harm.
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