At Least 177 Ukrainian POWs Confirmed Killed in Russian Captivity, Real Numbers Likely Much Higher

At least 177 Ukrainian prisoners confirmed dying while in Russian captivity since the Kremlin launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, with the real number likely to be much higher.

This was reported by Viktoriia Tsymbaliuk, a representative for the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War (POWs), a branch of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry.

“The more time they spend in Russian prisons, the closer they are to death,” said Tsymbaliuk.

Tsymbaliuk noted that the actual number of deaths in Russian captivity is likely much higher due to the absence of international oversight. 

“This is the number that we have,” she said. “But of course, not all the bodies are returned and many are not even confirmed by Russia as being in captivity.”

It is constantly reported that Russian Forces are systematically subjecting Ukrainian POWs to torture and cruel treatment, and deliberately withholding medical care.