
The title accurately describes the content of the article, which highlights the persistent suffering of civilians and prisoners of war in Ukraine due to Russian attacks and expansion of control over occupied territories from September to November 2024.
The title accurately describes the content of the article, which highlights the persistent suffering of civilians and prisoners of war in Ukraine due to Russian attacks and expansion of control over occupied territories from September to November 2024.
The report by the United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine highlights the persistent suffering of civilians and prisoners of war (POWs) as Russia continues to expand its control over occupied territories.The report covers the period from September to November 2024, describing intensified Russian attacks on populated areas, deliberate strikes on energy infrastructure, and efforts to restrict fundamental rights. "Behind each of the facts and figures in this report are stories of loss and human suffering, showing the devastating impact of the war across Ukraine," said Danielle Bell, Head of the HRMMU.The majority of casualties recorded occurred in government-controlled areas, particularly in Donetsk, Kharkiv, and Kherson, where military activity remains intense. Modified aerial bombs, which can now glide tens of kilometers into large cities like Kharkiv and Sumy before exploding, have exacerbated the devastation. The bombardment of Zaporizhzhia on November 7 alone killed nine civilians and injured 42, while short-range drones killed 67 and injured 528.Russian forces have also resumed large-scale aerial attacks on Ukraine's critical energy infrastructure. Strikes on November 17 and 28 further diminished Ukraine's energy capacity as winter approached, disrupting electricity, water, heating, and transportation systems in multiple regions.The report details continued executions, torture, and ill-treatment of POWs. Since August 2024, there has been a notable increase in credible allegations of executions of Ukrainian POWs, with at least 62 victims in 19 incidents.Furthermore, Russia has imposed its laws over occupied regions, in violation of its obligations under international humanitarian law, including the requirement for residents to obtain Russian citizenship to keep their property rights. Homes that were forcibly abandoned have been confiscated, making it nearly impossible for displaced residents to return.The report calls for the critical upholding of international humanitarian and human rights law. "The armed attack on Ukraine has continued unabated for almost three years. Amidst so much suffering, it is imperative to intensify efforts to uphold international humanitarian and human rights law," said Ms. Bell.