Russian forces allegedly abducted at least 50 Ukrainian civilians from a village near Ukraine’s northeastern border, according to statements released by Ukrainian authorities, who described this incident as the forced transference of residents into Russia. Reported abductions occurred in Sumy region – an area frequently subjected to tight security due to its closeness with Russia’s borders.
Dmytro Lubinets, Ukraine’s Human Rights Commissioner has reported that Russian soldiers entered Hrabovske village close to Russia’s frontier and conducted a military operation, detaining residents without providing an opportunity for contact between relatives or local authorities and them and those taken. They were later transported across into Russian territory without being permitted accessing relatives or local authorities for contact or protection.
Lubinets reported that many detained residents despite repeated evacuation calls issued by Ukrainian officials have continued living in their village of detention despite designation of high risk by Ukraine due to military activity, shelling incidents and concerns of cross-border incursion.
Local officials indicated that most of those abducted were civilians, including elderly residents who chose to remain at their homes despite deteriorating security conditions. Ukrainian authorities assert that no evidence suggests those taken had engaged in any military activities or participated in them in any form.
Kyiv residents living near border regions remain concerned over their own security as fighting continues in various parts of Ukraine. Officials from Ukraine have warned that settlements near borders remain susceptible to sudden military actions and have again encouraged remaining residents to relocate into safer locations.
At present, Ukrainian authorities report they are taking measures to ascertain the fate and whereabouts of those taken, while international organizations have been informed about allegations made in relation to Sumy region security conditions being unstable and unpredictable.
