Russian soldiers face war crimes charges for allegedly torturing American in Ukraine

The Department of Justice confirmed the indictment on Wednesday, alleging four Russian soldiers abducted and tortured a U.S. citizen during the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. U.S. General Attorney Merrick Garland describes these as the first charges filed under the U.S. war crime statute and Russia “should expect more.” The indictment names four men who were members of Russia’s armed forces or a proxy unit, while at the same time keeping the U.S. citizen’s identity hidden.

What did they allegedly do to the American? Investigators say the unnamed citizen was beaten and interrogated at a Russian military compound for 10 days after soldiers kidnapped him from his home. The man described being stripped naked and threatened with sexual assault. The indictment also alleged captors held a mock execution of the man. Authorities said the man is still alive after being evacuated from Russia with his Ukrainian wife.

Dig deeper: Read Jill Nelson’s report in WORLD Magazine on the investigation to hold Russia accountable for its alleged war crimes.