Russian Soldier Accused of Detaining and Sexually Assaulting Kherson Resident for a Month

A 37-year-old Russian soldier has been accused of unlawfully imprisoning and sexually assaulting a local woman during the occupation of the Kherson region. The suspect has been identified as Zunel Bratov, a serviceman of the 25th Separate Guards Regiment of the Russian Armed Forces.

The Kherson Regional Prosecutor’s Office has gathered enough evidence to charge Bratov with cruel treatment of civilians and other violations of the laws and customs of war. During the occupation of a local village, Bratov allegedly kidnapped a resident, forcibly took her to a residence he was occupying, and held her there against her will for approximately a month. During this time, the woman was subjected to repeated sexual assaults, forced to perform household chores, and suffered physical abuse when she disobeyed orders.

The suspect was identified through his social media profiles. On his “Odnoklassniki” page, Bratov indicates that he resides in Stavropol, is married, and has children. He frequently posts family photos, including images of his sons dressed in Soviet military uniforms.

Bratov has been serving in the Russian military for several years, as evidenced by a “For Combat Distinction” medal awarded to him by the Russian Ministry of Defense in 2021. His brother, Amir Bratov, works in the Russian police force and has also received state commendations.

If found guilty in court, Zunel Bratov faces a prison sentence of 8 to 12 years.