Peace Summit hosts discussion of war’s humanitarian dimension

This was reported by the Ukrainian President’s Office, Ukrinform saw.

Daria Zarivna, a senior adviser to the head of the Office, who moderated the panel, noted that the mass abductions of Ukrainian children and the system of brutal torture of POWs are the essence of Russian imperialism and true signs of genocide.

“’There is no flag large enough to cover the shame of killing innocent people.’ These are the words of the American historian Howard Zinn. Killing innocent people through torture is not just a shame, it is sheer barbarism," Zarivna said.

As noted, three Ukrainians shared with the participants of the panel their experiences from Russian aggression.

"Vladislav Buriak, who is now 18 years old, said he had spent 90 days in Russian captivity after being abducted at a checkpoint in Vasylivka. While in captivity, the young man was subjected to horrific torture and abuse. But despite all hardships, he never lost confidence and steadfastness of spirit, supporting other prisoners," the message reads.

Maksym Kolesnikov, a 45-year-old soldier, spent almost a year in Russian captivity. During those 321 days, he lost 32 kilograms. Held, in the detention center in Russia’s Bryansk region, he faced brutal treatment and endless interrogations, also being limited in access to food, before being eventually swapped.

Odesa-based Baptist Serhii Haydarzhi shared his personal loss as his spouse Anna and a four-month-old daughter were killed by a Russian drone. He also recently told his story to U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson.

Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin emphasized that law enforcers have already documented almost 130,000 cases of Russian war crimes, including 301 cases of sexual violence. Russian invaders have killed over 12,000 civilians, including 551 children, according to verified reports.

"The Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights, Dmytro Lubinets, emphasized that all those held in Russian captivity are subjected to systematic torture. At least 14,000 such cases have been confirmed" the report reads.

As reported, the Prosecutor General's Office is in contact with the team of the International Criminal Court working in Ukraine to investigate torture of prisoners of war and civilians.

Photo: President’s Office