Russian Fighter Admits to Executing Ukrainian POWs

A fighter from the Russian-aligned "Somali" battalion, Ivan Okhlopkov, has admitted to executing five Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) in the village of Karlovka, Donetsk region, in May 2024. In an interview with the independent Belarusian media outlet *Vot Tak*, Okhlopkov described how the prisoners were taken to a garden, forced to their knees, and shot on the orders of his command.

Okhlopkov, a former prisoner himself, claimed he feels no guilt for his actions, citing the brutal conditions of war. He also revealed that the "Somali" battalion, which is known for its brutal practices, engaged in beatings and other forms of brutal treatment against soldiers. After serving for several months, Okhlopkov deserted the battalion and returned home.

This incident is a clear example of a war crime that violates the Geneva Conventions and is subject to international investigation and criminal prosecution. The European External Action Service has recorded at least 177 executions of Ukrainian prisoners since the start of the war, noting that most of these acts were carried out on the orders of higher command.

Ivan Okhlopkov has been added to the Myrotvorets database, which lists individuals considered war criminals. This case highlights the ongoing atrocities and violations of international law in the conflict.