Russian Remains Found Among Repatriated Bodies of Ukrainian Defenders

Russia reportedly mixed the remains of its fallen soldiers with those of Ukrainian defenders during the recent repatriation process.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine disclosed this information.

In collaboration with the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defence and the Coordinating Headquarters for Prisoner of War Affairs, the Ministry released the photographs and details of individuals whom Russia attempted to falsely present as Ukrainian fighters.

During the examination, experts from the Ministry of Internal Affairs identified typical patches and tattoos bearing Russian symbols among the remains that were handed over.

Additionally, the elements of military uniforms and other signs indicating that the bodies belonged to Russian servicemen were discovered.

According to the reports, the relatives of deceased Russian soldiers who have identified the returned remains or suspect that their family member is among them can contact the International Commission on Missing Persons.

Ukraine, for its part, documents all cases, adheres to international standards, and acts solely on humanitarian grounds.

On June 20, it became known that among the bodies of fallen Ukrainian soldiers returned by Russia under the Istanbul agreements, Ukrainian authorities had discovered the remains of a Russian citizen along with personal documents.

This case confirmed that Russia deliberately used the repatriation process as a tool of political pressure and manipulation.

In addition to body switching, the Russian side often transfers remains in a highly mutilated state.

The parts of one body may be separated into several bags, which makes identification much more difficult.

Each transfer goes through several levels of examination. All violations are duly recorded by the Ukrainian side to prevent manipulation of the dead and to ensure that each hero is returned with dignity.