Donetsk prosecutors have opened a formal investigation into the alleged killing of two captured Ukrainian National Guard soldiers near Dobropillya in early September. The office is treating the deaths as a possible war crime and said a photograph accompanying its announcement suggests drone footage may exist. Kyiv has reported numerous cases of surrendered fighters being killed, and prosecutors are investigating more than 260 similar incidents amid more than four years of conflict.
Donetsk Prosecutors Open War-Crimes Probe After Two Ukrainian POWs Allegedly Shot Near Dobropillya
FILE PHOTO - A Ukrainian flag flies in the square in front of the city hall. (is associated with: «Ukraine opens war crimes probe after POWs allegedly shot by Russians») Sebastian Gollnow/dpa
Ukraine's Donetsk Regional Prosecutor's Office said on Friday it has launched a formal investigation into the alleged killing of two Ukrainian prisoners of war by Russian forces.
The office said the incident reportedly occurred in early September near the front line outside the eastern city of Dobropillya. According to the announcement posted on Telegram, the victims were members of the Ukrainian National Guard who had been captured during fighting and were later shot dead.
Investigation Under Way
Prosecutors are treating the deaths as a potential war crime and have opened a probe. The statement did not disclose the primary source of the information, but a published photograph accompanying the announcement suggests that drone footage of the incident may exist.
Context and Wider Pattern
Human rights groups and Ukrainian officials have repeatedly alleged cases in which Russian troops killed Ukrainian fighters after they had surrendered. Ukrainian prosecutors say they are investigating more than 260 suspected cases of similar abuses.
Ukraine has been defending itself against a Russian invasion for four and a half years. The Donetsk office says it will continue its inquiry and pursue accountability through Ukraine's legal system; international bodies may also take interest if evidence of war crimes is substantiated.
Note: Allegations remain unproven until established by a court or independent investigation. The prosecutor's office has not provided full details publicly.
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