Arbitrary detention and torture: Balakliia under Russian Occupation, from 3 March to 8 September 2022

The report describes and analyses abuses that include core international crimes and human rights violations. It sheds light on the gravity and intensity of the Russian occupying force's misconduct in Balakliia. Their actions had a severe negative impact on the civilian population. The systematic nature of the crimes indicates that they intended to instil fear and obedience among the civilian population.

The findings point to further investigations and accountability for those responsible for the crimes. International attention must be paid to prevent further atrocities and uphold the principles of international humanitarian law. While efforts to end the war with a peace deal based on international law and with security guarantees for Ukraine must be supported, the evidence presented in this and many similar reports calls for a strong justice component of any sustainable peace agreement.

While this report does not detail specific military units' responsibility for the crimes, the findings still suggest a pattern of abuses linked to particular units.

Further investigations are necessary to establish accountability and ensure justice for those affected.