Ukraine’s Parliament reveals staggering scale of citizens held in Russian captivity, citing new study

Also, 375 repatriated bodies reportedly bore signs of torture.

As of May 2026, around 7,000 Ukrainian service members are being held in Russian captivity. The situation regarding civilians remains even more uncertain, with estimates suggesting that Russia is detaining between 10,000 and 20,000 Ukrainian citizens.

The figures were announced by Olena Kondratiuk, Deputy Chairperson of the Verkhovna Rada, citing a newly released study.

«Around 7,000 Ukrainian service members are currently held in Russian captivity; civilian detainees are estimated at between 10,000 and 20,000, depending on the source. To date, just over 9,048 Ukrainians—mostly military personnel—have been successfully brought home,» Kondratiuk stated.

Widespread torture of captives in Russia

Kondratiuk emphasized that these are not isolated incidents, but rather part of a widespread practice of abuse and torture.

«Over 95% of Ukrainian POWs are subjected to torture and ill-treatment while in Russian captivity… This is state policy,» she said.

Kondratiuk also drew particular attention to a recent return of the deceased:
«Russia recently returned the bodies of 375 people from captivity, all showing signs of torture and a denial of medical assistance,» Kondratiuk said.

According to her, these findings, combined with specialized research, form a body of evidence documenting systemic violations of international humanitarian law. This data can be used for future legal actions and increased sanctions pressure.

International monitoring bodies continue to document this large-scale problem, which involves the denial of medical care, torture, and violations of basic detention standards.