Russia has launched an investigation into a potential torture of Russian POWs at the hands of Ukranian servicemen. Various videos have now surfaced online, including one that appears to show three Russian soldiers being shot in the legs while their hands are cuffed behind their backs.
Russia’s Investigative Committee stated “one video circulating online shows captured soldiers being shot in the legs without medical assistance”. Alexander Bastrykin has been ordered to head up the investigative body, quoted as saying “investigators to establish all the circumstances of the incident, collect and record evidence and identify all the persons involved in it to subsequently bring them to justice.”
Warning: Video contains Graphic Images of violence.
In the video in question, it is not immediately clear where or when the videos were shot, however some reports indicate that they were captured at a military compound located in eastern Ukraine, in the region of Kharkov which is used by “nationalist” units. Multiple other disturbing videos have appeared online over the weekend, which appear to be filmed at the same compound.
One of the videos appears to show multiple Russian prisoners of war laying on the ground. The servicemen appear to have been heavily beaten and have apparent leg wounds. Armed men interrogated the injured soldiers, and many of the armed men are wearing blue arm bands which are consistent with Ukranian units. Unfortunately, it is alleged that some of the wounded personnel died due to the wounds they sustained during their interrogation.
Even pro Ukranian figures have condemned the actions and behaviour by the soldiers towards the captured POWs, as it is extremely cruel and unnecessary behaviour. Founder of U.S. government funded Bellingcat “investigative journalism” outlet Eliot Higgins, described it as a “very serious incident” and called for “further investigation” of the disturbing footage.
I dont condone violence at all, however, I dont understand how war has ruled! If you are at war, isnt the main objective to win using whatever means you deem neccessary. I cant imagine anyone could do that while following etiquette, and avoiding war crimes. Personally I think war itself is the criminal act. Soldiers no matter which side they are on have to follow orders,which ultimately come from governments so who should be locked up and punished for inhumane behavior?