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Russian Court Sentences Five Ukrainian POWs to 15-18 Years in Kursk Case
Five Ukrainian POWs received lengthy sentences from a Moscow court, raising serious concerns over the treatment of prisoners of war in Russia. The trials reflect ongoing legal and humanitarian challenges.
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Photo: Ukrinform EN
At a glance
- Five Ukrainian POWs received sentences ranging from 15 to 18 years.
- Sentences issued by the Second Western District Military Court in Moscow.
- Allegations include participation in military actions considered terrorist activities by Russian authorities.
- International human rights groups express concern over trial fairness.
- The cases reflect ongoing tensions and legal disputes in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Why it matters
These sentences highlight the legal and humanitarian challenges faced by Ukrainian POWs in Russia. Additionally, the convictions influence the broader narrative of the ongoing conflict and its implications for international law and human rights.
https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-society/4101631-russian-court-sentences-five-ukrainian-pows-to-1518-years-over-kursk-region-operation.html
Sentencing Details
On March 14, 2026, the Second Western District Military Court in Moscow sentenced five Ukrainian prisoners of war for alleged terrorism under Russian law. Oleksandr Harbuz, 53, from Ukraine's 129th Territorial Defense Brigade, received the longest sentence of 18 years for reportedly planting mines in the Sudzha district in October 2024. He was captured on July 23, 2025.
Other Sentences
Volodymyr Koshmela, a member of the 25th Assault Battalion, was sentenced to 17 years after being captured on January 24, 2025. Prosecutors stated he gathered intelligence on Russian troop locations and took part in the blockade of Guyevo from December 2024 to January 2025.
Serhii Mekhonoshyn from the 17th Mechanized Brigade and Mykola Cheban of the 255th Assault Battalion each received 16-year sentences. They were accused of entering the Glushkovo district in May 2025, with Cheban allegedly taking a combat position in an armored vehicle before his capture on June 9, 2025.
Legal and Humanitarian Concerns
These rulings have faced criticism from human rights organizations, which argue that the trials do not adhere to international legal standards. Oleksandr Sychuhov from the 33rd Assault Regiment was sentenced to 15 years for actions near Tyotkino starting April 19, 2025, having been in Russian custody since May 31, 2025.
These sentences represent a broader pattern of judicial actions by Russian authorities against Ukrainian personnel, raising critical questions about the treatment of POWs and the implications for international law. Previous sentences, such as the life term given to Volodymyr Parafilo, highlight the obstacles faced by captured soldiers.
Conclusion
The convictions of these five individuals illustrate the ongoing legal and humanitarian concerns surrounding Ukrainian POWs in Russia. Their treatment during the conflict poses significant challenges to international norms regarding prisoner rights.
Source: Ukrinform EN
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