Ukrainians held in basement by Russian forces near Georgia border - Media
Verkhnii Lars checkpoint (Photo: Getty Images)
At least 45 Ukrainians who were deported from Russia have been held for several days in a basement at the Verkhnii Lars checkpoint on the border with Georgia, reports the Telegram channel Astra.
Most of those being held are former prisoners who were taken from the occupied territories. However, there are also civilians among them.
“Among the detainees are people with HIV, tuberculosis, and disabilities. They are not being fed or given medical assistance. Many are in worsening condition, and one person has already been hospitalized,” journalists report.
One of the detainees held by Russia reported that eight people arrived in his group, including individuals with disabilities and serious illnesses.
“We’re being held in a basement with no basic facilities: no shower, no toilet, and we’re not being fed. Volunteers bring humanitarian aid, but it only lasts a few days, and not for everyone. The basement is damp, water drips from the ceiling, there’s no air to breathe, everyone is smoking, and we’re not allowed outside. We sleep in shifts, four hours at a time. Some sleep on the floor,” he said.
Photo: Ukrainians held at the border without food or water (t.me/astrapress)
How Ukrainians feel about Russia
In June 2024, 95% of respondents identified themselves as ethnic Ukrainians, while only 2% considered themselves ethnic Russians. Before the war, in 2021, 87% identified as Ukrainians and 9% as Russians.
According to Mykhailo Mishchenko, Deputy Director of the Razumkov Center’s sociological service, Russian-speaking Ukrainians have suffered the most from Russian aggression. Researchers believe this is why they now harbor strong hatred toward Russia and have deep faith in the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
