The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine has uncovered disturbing evidence that Russian forces have mixed the remains of their own deceased soldiers with those of Ukrainian defenders during the newly established repatriation procedures. This troubling revelation was shared following joint investigations carried out in cooperation with the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense and the Coordination Headquarters for Prisoner of War Affairs.
As part of these efforts, the Ukrainian authorities released photographs and detailed information exposing several individuals whom Russia attempted to falsely identify as fallen Ukrainian fighters. Expert examinations conducted by forensic teams revealed clear signs that some of the returned bodies were not Ukrainian soldiers but Russian servicemen.
Among the evidence found were military patches and distinctive tattoos bearing Russian symbols. Additionally, fragments of Russian military uniforms and other identifying features were discovered on the remains. These findings highlight a deliberate attempt by Russian forces to confuse or obscure the true identities of their dead during the repatriation process.
The Ministry has urged relatives of deceased Russian soldiers who recognize the returned remains or suspect their loved ones may be among them to contact the International Commission on Missing Persons for assistance in identification and verification.
Ukraine stresses that all cases of returned bodies are recorded with utmost care, following international humanitarian standards and protocols. The repatriation procedures are conducted solely on humanitarian grounds, respecting the dignity of all fallen soldiers, regardless of nationality.
This incident raises serious concerns about the conduct of Russian forces amid the ongoing conflict and underscores the challenges faced by Ukraine in ensuring transparent and truthful processes during prisoner and body exchanges.
