Russian prison guard charged for torturing Ukrainian POWs
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and the National Police of Ukraine have documented war crimes committed by another Russian prison officer involved in the torture of Ukrainian prisoners of war. He has been charged in absentia.
According to the case files, the suspect is Russian citizen Ruslan Kholtobin, an inspector at Correctional Colony No. 10 in the Republic of Mordovia.
Investigators found that Kholtobin participated in brutal treatment of Ukrainian soldiers held in Russian captivity. Authorities collected evidence of his involvement in torture and other violations of international humanitarian law. Investigations are ongoing to establish all circumstances and hold him accountable.
From February 2023 to October 2025, Kholtobin reportedly tortured Ukrainian POWs who had been illegally imprisoned in the Russian facility. Evidence shows he beat prisoners with electric shocks and a rubber baton during morning and evening inspections, kicked them, applied psychological pressure, and left them without food or water for extended periods.
Based on collected evidence, the SBU has formally charged Kholtobin with war crimes in absentia. Although he remains in Russia, authorities are taking comprehensive measures to locate him and bring him to justice. The investigation is conducted under the procedural guidance of the Office of the Prosecutor General.
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