Ukraine is marking the Day of Mourning and Commemoration of the Fallen in Russian Captivity for the first time
This is reported by Kyiv24
On July 28, Ukraine has declared a Day of Mourning and Commemoration for Defenders, participants of volunteer formations, and civilians who were executed, tortured, or died in captivity of the Russian Federation. This date has been established in honor of those who perished in Olenivka.
The Tragedy in Olenivka as a Symbol of Russian War Crimes
It was on the night of July 28 to 29, 2022, that Russia committed one of its most brutal war crimes – dozens of Ukrainian prisoners of war, including fighters from the Azov regiment, were killed in a colony in Olenivka. At that time, Russian occupiers detonated a barrack with prisoners, causing a massive fire and numerous casualties.
“On the night of July 28 to 29, 2022, Russia committed one of the most horrific war crimes, killing dozens of Ukrainian prisoners – ‘Azov’ fighters – in Olenivka. Unfortunately, there are many such examples of Russian atrocities,” wrote Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in his Telegram channel.
Consequences of the Tragedy and the Reaction of the International Community
As a result of the explosions and fire, 47 people died on the spot, six more died from blood loss, and over 100 Ukrainian prisoners of war were injured. For several hours, medical personnel from other barracks were not allowed to assist the victims, and evacuation was permitted only in the morning.
The Russian Federation accused Ukraine of shelling the colony; however, it did not provide access to the site of the tragedy for either Ukrainian or international experts. The UN mission, which was investigating the events in Olenivka, existed until January 2023, after which it was disbanded. Ukraine continues to insist on the need for an objective investigation of this tragedy and holding those responsible accountable.