In the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the suffering of civilians abducted by Russian forces is a tragic and often overlooked reality. As the war continues, nearly 16,000 individuals have been reported missing, taken to a network of prisons scattered across Russian-occupied areas and even deep within Russia itself.
These abductions are not just a violation of human rights; they are considered war crimes under international law. Despite this, the Russian government shows little regard for the fate of these civilians. Many families are left in despair, with no information about their loved ones. For instance, Dmytro Khilyuk, a man taken by Russian troops, has been missing since March 2022. His elderly parents have not heard from him since a brief letter from captivity, leaving them in a state of constant worry.
Reports from survivors reveal a horrifying picture of life in these prisons. Human rights lawyer Oleksandra Matviichuk has documented numerous accounts of torture and abuse. Survivors describe brutal treatment, including beatings, sexual violence, and extreme psychological torment. One survivor recounted a woman whose eye was gouged out with a spoon. The conditions in these prisons are described as inhumane, with many detainees suffering from severe physical and mental health issues.
Halyna and Vasyl, Khilyuk’s parents, express their deep anguish. Halyna, who is bedridden from a stroke, shared her pain about not knowing her son’s fate. She fears she may never see him again and feels helpless as discussions about his release continue without any real progress.
The Ukrainian government is trying to piece together information about the abducted civilians, relying on those who have been released to share what they can. However, Russia provides no updates or information about the individuals it holds, which is against the rules of war.
The plight of these civilians is a pressing issue that is often overshadowed by other aspects of the conflict. Matviichuk emphasizes that the world must not forget the cruelty faced by these innocent people. She urges that they should be released immediately, as they are not combatants but civilians caught in a tragic situation.
As diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict continue, the need for accountability and pressure on Russia to address these abductions remains critical. The families of the missing deserve answers, and the international community must not lose sight of their suffering.