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26 Ukrainian Journalists Detained by Russia, ICRC Confirms One Case
The detention of 26 Ukrainian media workers raises alarms for press freedom amid ongoing conflict. Human Rights Commissioner Dmytro Lubinets reported limited releases since 2025.
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Photo: Ukrinform EN
At a glance
- 26 Ukrainian journalists and media workers are unlawfully held by Russia.
- The ICRC has confirmed the detention of only one journalist.
- Three journalists were returned to Ukraine in 2025 through negotiation efforts.
- 175 journalists have suffered due to Russian aggression during the war.
- 901 total crimes against journalists have been recorded since the full-scale invasion.
Why it matters
The unlawful detention of journalists threatens press freedom and the ability to report independently in Ukraine. Such actions create a chilling effect on media professionals, affecting their safety and access to information during wartime.
https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-society/4105401-lubinets-russia-holds-26-ukrainian-media-workers-in-captivity-red-cross-confirms-detention-of-only-one.html
Current Situation
Dmytro Lubinets, the Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights, announced that Russia is unlawfully detaining 26 journalists and media professionals. He noted that only three journalists have been released since early 2025.
Released Journalists
Among those released are Dmytro Khyliuk, Mark Kaliush, and Vladyslav Yesypenko. However, the detention of the remaining 26 poses serious risks to their safety and the overall media environment in Ukraine.
Role of the ICRC
Lubinets pointed out the difficulties faced by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in addressing these detentions, with only one case being officially recognized. This limitation complicates efforts to advocate for the release of the detained journalists.
Violence Against Journalists
Many journalists covering the conflict have faced violence. Lubinets highlighted the threats from shelling and drone strikes, even in areas previously considered secure.
Media Safety Statistics
According to Reporters Without Borders, Russian military actions have impacted 175 journalists since the war began. The National Union of Journalists of Ukraine reports that at least 21 media workers have lost their lives while reporting.
From February 24 to March 24, 2026, the Institute of Mass Information documented five incidents of crimes against journalists attributed to Russia, contributing to a total of 901 incidents recorded since the full-scale invasion started. This data reflects a troubling trend of aggression against media personnel.
Implications for Press Freedom
The unlawful detention of journalists severely undermines press freedom and the capacity for independent reporting in Ukraine. This creates an environment where media professionals face increased danger, limiting their ability to gather information during ongoing hostilities.
Journalism is essential for transparency and accountability, raising concerns about the international community's commitment to protecting journalists.
Source: Ukrinform EN
This report is maintained as a live newsroom article. Headlines and top paragraphs may be tightened when fresh reporting changes the clearest angle.
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