Turkey remains actively engaged in diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the war and addressing humanitarian concerns, particularly the return of Ukrainian citizens, both military and civilian, from Russian captivity. This was stated by the representative of the Turkish Chief Ombudsman's office, Sadettin Kalkan, during a meeting with families of Ukrainian prisoners of war and former servicemen.
“For nearly four years, you have endured a challenging period that no society should have to face. As a neighboring nation, we are truly saddened by this. We hope for a resolution to the conflict, and we are working diligently towards that goal… Our efforts will continue”, Kalkan noted.
The Ombudsman emphasized the importance of the Turkish President's diplomatic efforts in achieving peace and advancing humanitarian initiatives.
“We have sent a request to the Russian Ombudsman, Tatyana Moskalkova, to visit Russia to monitor the conditions of individuals we have received inquiries about. Unfortunately, we have not received a response… We will process and pass your inquiries to the Russian side, just as we have done in the past… Our support will persist”, Kalkan stated.
During the meeting, family members of prisoners of war expressed their concerns regarding violations of international law by Russia, including torture, inhumane treatment, and inadequate detention conditions.
Families reported numerous instances where Russia denies the captivity of certain individuals, despite confirmation from released Ukrainian servicemen and social media videos.
“Russia continues to violate the Geneva Conventions, and your support is our only leverage. They are killing our prisoners of war, returning not only the living and wounded but also the bodies of those tortured. The confirmation of our missing soldiers is a significant issue. We are aware of their captivity, but Russia does not acknowledge this. We are talking about thousands of such cases”, said Svetlana Lyashko, head of the public movement “In the Footsteps of Those Who Wait”.
Family members of Ukrainian prisoners also highlighted the lack of communication with the captives, medical assistance, and the detention of those suffering from serious illnesses, such as tuberculosis, in common cells. There were also discussions about cases where, after filing appeals regarding their sentences, the prisoners received even longer terms or life sentences.
“In Russian captivity, individuals are subjected to severe abuse, facing constant physical and psychological pressure. Upon returning from captivity, I joined a public organization that focuses on bringing prisoners home. My goal is for all Ukrainians to return home… We are grateful to Turkey for its assistance in bringing our captives home and hope for continued support”, stated a former prisoner of war, a defender of Mariupol, who was held captive for over a thousand days.
Family members of prisoners of war handed over lists and personal appeals to the Turkish ombudsman regarding the release of their relatives from Russian captivity.