Accusations of systemic torture of detainees discussed at UN Security Council

On August 11, 2026, Ukrainian officials and former detainees presented evidence before an informal UN Security Council meeting, accusing Russian authorities of systemic torture against prisoners of war and civilian captives. Survivors reported enduring beatings, electric shocks, sexual violence, and prolonged isolation while in Russian custody. Juan Alberto Levia Garcia, an active member of the Ukrainian armed forces, testified that he was subjected to extensive torture throughout his 1,183 days of captivity.

Russian officials, represented by Deputy UN Representative Maria Zabolotskaya, categorically denied the allegations, characterizing them as a coordinated disinformation campaign. Furthermore, Russia alleged that Russian prisoners held by Ukraine have faced their own forms of physical and psychological abuse, including humiliation and torture. The UN session highlighted the ongoing severe tensions regarding the treatment of captives as thousands remain in detention, with neither side acknowledging responsibility for the reported atrocities.