PACE calls on Russia to uphold prisoner swaps, condemns abuse of Ukrainian captives

This appeal is outlined in a resolution unanimously adopted by 88 members during the PACE session in Strasbourg, according to Ukraine’s Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War.

The document emphasizes the urgent need to establish an international mechanism for prisoner exchanges under an “all for all” format, involving the International Committee of the Red Cross and neutral states.

The resolution highlights that the release of all Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilian hostages must be treated as a top priority.

The Assembly also strongly condemned Russia’s appalling treatment of Ukrainian prisoners, stating that such actions constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity. According to the resolution, 95% of released Ukrainian POWs reported having been subjected to torture, sexual violence, or other forms of inhuman treatment while in captivity.

The resolution also underscores that Russia systematically violates the Third Geneva Convention by denying prisoners of war access to medical care, sufficient food, proper hygiene, and communication with their families. It further highlights Russia's continued obstruction of international organizations seeking access to detention facilities.

PACE expressed concern about the dire situation of Ukrainian prisoners of war, “subjected to summary executions, widespread and systematic torture, and inhuman and degrading treatment, amounting to war crimes and crimes against humanity.” This reality demands urgent intervention by the international community, the resolution states.

For the first time, Belarus is officially named in the document as a country involved in the detention of Ukrainian prisoners.

The Assembly calls on Russia to establish specialized camps for prisoners that meet international standards, including access to medical care, adequate nutrition, and legal assistance. It also urges the creation of a Joint Medical Commission to evaluate the condition of the wounded and sick, and the establishment of an official Prisoner Information Bureau to ensure transparency and accountability.

• On Friday, June 20, another stage of the prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia took place, focused on the severely wounded and seriously ill people.