The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission has reported a sharp rise in the execution of Ukrainian soldiers by Russian forces. On Monday, the mission revealed that it had recorded 79 executions in 24 incidents since August of last year.

Violations of International Law

These executions are clear violations of international humanitarian law, which prohibits the killing of prisoners of war and the wounded. The mission explained that many Ukrainian soldiers, who had surrendered or were in custody, were shot dead on the spot. Additionally, witnesses reported that unarmed and injured Ukrainian soldiers were also killed.

Ukraine Calls for International Action

In response to these findings, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, called for urgent international action. He stated on X, “Russia’s horrific executions of Ukrainian prisoners of war demonstrate that Ukraine confronts true beasts. We need new and effective international legal tools, and concrete steps to hold the perpetrators accountable.” Meanwhile, the Russian Ministry of Defence did not respond to the UN’s request for comment.

Evidence and Witness Accounts

The UN mission gathered video and photographic evidence from both Ukrainian and Russian sources showing the executions or dead bodies. Furthermore, they conducted interviews with witnesses. The executions occurred in areas where Russian forces were carrying out offensive operations. Danielle Bell, the head of the UN mission, emphasized that some Russian officials have openly called for the inhumane treatment and execution of Ukrainian soldiers.

Other Documented Executions

In addition to the Ukrainian soldiers' executions, the mission also documented the killing of a wounded Russian soldier by Ukrainian forces in 2024. However, they provided no further details. As a result, the Ukrainian prosecutor’s office has confirmed it is investigating multiple cases of executions of Ukrainian soldiers by Russian forces.