Russians abduct 19 people from a village in Sumy region
In the Sumy region, Russian forces have likely kidnapped 19 residents of the border village of Sopych in the Esman community. At first, all contact with the people was lost, and later they appeared in reports on Russian television. The Ukrainian side has already contacted the Human Rights Commissioner in Russia, demanding verification of the individuals’ whereabouts, their condition, and their safe return home, according to Ukrainian Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets.
Russian forces likely took 19 civilians from Sopych in the Esman community to Russia. This was reported by Ukrainian authorities after communication with the individuals abruptly stopped. According to available information, residents of the border village ceased contacting their relatives and acquaintances. Some time later, videos of their interviews were broadcast on Russian television.
It became known afterward that the individuals may be on Russian territory. Ukrainian authorities regard these actions as violations of international humanitarian law. This concerns the possible forced deportation of civilians during wartime. The Ukrainian Human Rights Commissioner stated that he has already contacted his Russian counterpart, demanding an urgent check on the situation of the kidnapped Ukrainians.
“I have urgently appealed to the Human Rights Commissioner of the Russian Federation, requesting an immediate visit to the Ukrainian citizens,” he said. The Ukrainian side is also requesting information on the individuals’ condition and the circumstances in which they are being held.
“After the visit, I ask to be informed about their health and living conditions, and most importantly, to ensure their rapid return home,” the Ombudsman added.
He emphasized that these are civilians who have no connection to combat activities. Therefore, their forced relocation or detention in another country constitutes a serious violation of international law. International humanitarian law explicitly prohibits the forced deportation of civilians during wartime. Such actions may also be considered war crimes.
Ukraine insists on compliance with international rules of warfare and demands the return of its citizens. “Ukraine insists on the observance of international law and the protection of the rights of its citizens,” the statement said.
The village of Sopych is located near the Russian border. Border communities in Sumy region regularly suffer from shelling, sabotage, and other actions by Russian forces. Due to the proximity to the border, residents of these settlements often find themselves in dangerous situations. In some cases, people are forced to leave their homes urgently because of shelling or the threat of invasion. Ukrainian authorities stress that they will do everything possible to determine the fate of the abducted residents of Sumy region and ensure their return home.
In addition, Russian occupiers are shelling Vovchansk in an attempt to seize the city and surrounding areas, according to the Forpost Brigade.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces have pushed Russian troops back in the Donetsk region.
