More than 16 thousand Ukrainian civilians are in Russian prisons – Lubinets
More than 16,000 Ukrainian civilians are being held in Russian prisons, of whom only 168 have been released. This was stated by Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets during a visit to Zaporizhzhia.
Source: ukrinform
The Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights noted that the Ukrainian side has a separate list of more than 16 thousand civilians held in Russian captivity.
“According to preliminary data, more than 16 thousand civilian citizens of Ukraine are in Russian prisons. We are working on their release, despite the difficulties posed by the occupier,” emphasized Lubinets.
Lubinets reminded that according to international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions, the exchange of civilians for prisoners of war is not provided for. However, according to the ombudsman, the Ukrainian side has found a mechanism that has already resulted in the release of 168 civilians.
“This is a small number, but we do not stop working. Everyone who is in Russian captivity, including journalists, must be returned,” he emphasized.
Lubinets also drew attention to the detention of journalists in captivity, noting that the Russian side uses this as a means of suppressing freedom of speech in the temporarily occupied territories.
“Journalists are being tortured and killed to silence the media. This is another attempt to establish total control,” the ombudsman said.
Lubinets also commented on the death of Ukrainian journalist Victoria Roshchyna, who died in Russian captivity. According to him, the Russian side has officially reported her death and provided a certificate, but has not yet handed over the body for burial.
“We are negotiating to return Victoria’s body to her family. Unfortunately, the situation remains unresolved so far,” noted Lubinets.
The Ukrainian negotiating team continues to work on the release of all citizens detained by Russia. The Ombudsman emphasized that the return of every Ukrainian remains a priority for the state.
