7 hours ago
Last Updated:May 01, 2025, 08:03 IST
Ukrainian journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna was captured by Russian forces in 2023 while reporting on the dire situation in occupied Zaporizhzhia.
Viktoriia Roshchyna
An investigation by media outlets uncovered the brutal circumstances surrounding the death of Ukrainian journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna, who was captured by Russian forces in 2023 while reporting on the dire situation in occupied Zaporizhzhia. The findings paint a grim picture of torture and suspected attempts by Russia to conceal a potential war crime.
A forensic examination of the 27-year-old journalist’s body revealed extensive torture and ill-treatment, according to Yuriy Belousov, head of the War Crimes Unit at the Ukrainian Prosecutor General’s office. The injuries included “abrasions and hemorrhages on various parts of the body, a broken rib, neck injuries, and possible electric shock marks on her feet."
Disturbingly, there are also signs of a prior autopsy and the absence of several organs, suggesting a potential Russian effort to obscure the cause of death and cover up evidence of a war crime. Viktoriia Roshchyna’s colleagues at Ukrainska Pravda confirmed, citing investigators, that her brain, eyeballs, and trachea were missing.
The tragic death of Viktoriia Roshchyna has ignited widespread outrage and condemnation. Sevgil Musaieva, her editor at Ukrainska Pravda, lauded her dedication, stating that reporting from Russian-occupied territories was “a mission" for her, highlighting that she was the only journalist covering the area. The Committee to Protect Journalists also held Russia responsible for her death.
Ukrainian officials have amplified concerns regarding the thousands of civilians held by Russia without due process. Foreign ministry spokesman Georgiy Tykhy stressed the urgent need for “increased international attention and immediate and strong response" to the issue of civilian hostages. A colleague from Hromadske echoed the sentiment, emphasizing Roshchyna’s unwavering commitment to journalism and the profound loss of a journalist who consistently sought out the most critical events for her country, stating, “And she would have continued to do this for many years, but the Russians killed her."
Location :Moscow, Russia
First Published:News world Ukrainian Journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna Tortured, Had Her Organs Removed In Russian Captivity: Report
