Ukrainian Mayor's Death in Russian Custody Confirmed as Torture Case

Yevhen Matvieiev, mayor of Dniprorudne, endured nearly three years of captivity before his body was returned to Ukraine, showing signs of torture.

Yevhen Matvieiev, mayor of Dniprorudne in Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region, was captured by Russian forces in March 2022 during the initial stages of the invasion.
Ukrainian officials have confirmed that Matvieiev was tortured to death while in Russian custody, with his body returned as part of a recent exchange.
Matvieiev remained in his city during the Russian occupation to provide aid and support to his community, earning him recognition as a dedicated and principled leader.
Ukraine continues to report widespread human rights violations in Russian-controlled areas, including the detention and torture of civilians and local officials.
The Ukrainian government has called for the release of other mayors and civilians still held in Russian captivity, emphasizing the ongoing humanitarian crisis.