For the First Time, Ukraine Transfers Russian Soldier Accused of Torture to Lithuania for Trial

For the first time since the start of the full-scale invasion, Ukraine is transferring a Russian serviceman to a foreign state—Lithuania—for criminal prosecution on war crimes charges.

This was announced by Prosecutor General of Ukraine Ruslan Kravchenko on October 31.

The transferred individual is a senior military police sailor of the Russian Armed Forces, who was captured by Ukrainian defense forces in the Zaporizhzhia direction near Robotyne. The Prosecutor General noted that the suspect was involved in the illegal detention, torture, and inhumane treatment of both civilians and prisoners of war.

Among the atrocities he committed with other military personnel from his unit, Ruslan Kravchenko listed beating, torture with electric current, strangulation, and holding people in metal safes. One of the victims of this Russian serviceman was a citizen of Lithuania.

Read more

Category

Perspectives

“They Burned ‘Glory to Russia’ Into My Stomach”: Ukrainian Soldier’s First Interview After Torture in Russian Captivity

Jul 01, 2025 12:58

“This is a historic and important precedent for the entire system of international justice,” stated the Prosecutor General.

On October 30, the Vilnius District Court, following a request from the Prosecutor General’s Office of Lithuania, remanded the suspect in custody for three months. In Lithuania, he faces suspicion under articles of the Criminal Code covering war crimes, torture, unlawful deprivation of liberty, and violations of the Geneva Conventions. The senior sailor faces the possibility of life imprisonment for his actions.

“This is not just a legal action. It is a clear signal to every war criminal: you will not be able to hide from accountability in any country of the free world,” Kravchenko added.

Read more

Category

War in Ukraine

“It’s a Protocol to Destroy Them”: War Crimes Investigator Father Desbois Details Russian Torture of Ukrainians

Apr 30, 2025 19:01

Earlier, Russian army platoon commander was formally charged in connection with the murders of at least 17 civilians in Bucha. He faces suspicion not only for directly participating in the crimes but also for ordering the killings and being responsible for the unlawful actions of his soldiers.

This commander is one of six Russian servicemen suspected of committing atrocities who wrongly believed they would evade justice.

On the Frontline of Truth

Our reporters risk their lives to show what’s really happening in Ukraine. Your support keeps them safe, equipped, and reporting.

SUPPORT FRONTLINE REPORTS