UN Report Accuses Russia of War Crimes in Ukraine: Torture and Forced Disappearances Detailed

A new report by the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, released online, alleges that Russian authorities are responsible for war crimes including torture and forced disappearances. The report, set to be presented to the UN Human Rights Council next Tuesday, states these crimes were part of a widespread and systematic attack against civilians, aligned with coordinated state policy. The investigation found numerous civilians detained in Russian-controlled territories, many transferred to detention centers in occupied areas or Russia. During this detention, Russian authorities committed further violations, with victims disappearing for months or years, some dying in captivity. The report also accuses Russia of systematically using torture, including sexual violence, to extract information and intimidate detainees. The commission is also investigating incidents of Russian soldiers killing or wounding captured Ukrainian soldiers, and human rights violations by Ukrainian authorities against those accused of collaborating with the occupiers. Russia has not cooperated with the commission's investigation.