Uncovering the Truth: UN’s Internal Analysis on Olenivka Tragedy and Russia’s Role
In May 2022, Ukrainian defenders and civilians were witnesses to a horrific crime in the captured territories of Donetsk, when an explosion at a correctional facility in Olenivka claimed the lives of over 50 Ukrainian prisoners of war. This tragic event quickly drew international attention and raised questions about its perpetrators and motives. The United Nations' internal investigation, based on technical and expert analyses, confirms that this attack was a premeditated special operation executed by the Russian Federation aimed at discrediting Ukraine and its allies. New evidence presented in the report contradicts Russia's claims of Ukrainian strikes using HIMARS systems and instead indicates the use of Russian-made ammunition. According to the UN, the assault involved thermobaric shells of the type 30F74 from the 3VOF119 munition complex, which is part of the Russian military arsenal. The attack was carried out from the artillery system 2A51/2S9 'Nona' from the village of Lyubivka, just 2.3 km from the prison. The explosions resulted in a large fire and shrapnel injuries among prisoners, with detonators equipped with delayed action to maximize destructive effect. Experts state that the attack was carried out with Russian military equipment, and the goal was to conduct a covert sabotage operation to destabilize the situation and smear Ukraine and Western support. Decisions regarding the strike were reportedly made at the Russian General Staff level, with possible involvement of the 61st and 155th marine brigades and the 11th Guards Motor Rifle Regiment. Although Ukraine initially called for an independent investigation, the UN Fact-Finding Mission on Olenivka was disbanded after five months due to security concerns. Ukrainian Human Rights Commissioner Dmitry Lubinec emphasized that no expert team had been granted access to the evidence, casting doubts over the transparency of the investigation. This case underscores the need for justice and holding accountable those responsible for violations of international humanitarian law committed by Russia. The Olenivka tragedy remains a stark reminder of human suffering and the importance of defending human rights and dignity in times of war.