Red Cross Denied Access to Ukrainian POWs in Russia

The International Committee of the Red Cross has confirmed that it has been denied access to Ukrainian prisoners of war held in Russian prisons since 2024. Thousands of Ukrainians are being held in these facilities, where UN investigators have previously gathered evidence of systematic torture.

The 1949 Geneva Conventions explicitly stipulate the right of the International Committee of the Red Cross to monitor detainees' conditions, food, medical care and treatment.

Russia denies any torture or mistreatment of prisoners and has not immediately responded to the latest statements.

A spokesperson for the humanitarian organization noted that its president, Mirjana Spoljaric, also raised the issue during her recent visit to Russia. In an interview with the BBC, she emphasized that speaking openly about detention conditions and what happens in prisons is essential to preserving humanity.

(Reuters, max)