Stop the Torture and Murder of Political Prisoners in Ukrainian Prisons: Open Letter

Image via www.kononovich.org

For the attention of the Ukrainian authorities;

We are deeply concerned about the conditions of the political prisoners in your prisons. Specifically, the conditions at Vinnytsia Colony No. 86, which apparently effectively been converted into a detention camp for political prisoners and anti-fascists.

The situation of political prisoners in Ukraine is obviously extremely critical. They are facing torture, violations of their rights and grave injustice. According to reports and statements, since the first transfers in December 2025, the cells have lacked basic utilities, including electricity, heating and hot water, throughout the winter months.

The Prisoners Association further reports systematic abuse by the fascist regime against political prisoners, who have allegedly been subjected to repeated physical beatings, psychological torment and other forms of ill-treatment.

The Association has documented specific incidents highlighting the extreme dangers faced by political prisoners:

Alexander Melnik: Has been kept in solitary confinement for no apparent reason.

Andrei Anatolyevich Gimgin: A political prisoner suffering from cancer and diabetes, who died in the prison infirmary after one and a half months, reportedly following severe beatings and forced labour without receiving the medication he required.

28 January 2026 incident: Eight political prisoners — Dzyuba, Kotenko, Sozonov, Shapran, Pyatachenko, Batarev, Kigilchenko and Kelyukin — were reportedly subjected to severe beatings by prison guards after refusing to kneel during the national anthem and for minor procedural delays.

Vitaliy Kigilchenko: Reportedly subjected to severe physical assault.

Samir Bedrashko: Suffered serious injuries, including a concussion, and was subjected to further physical abuse after being unable to work. Despairing over his treatment, he attempted to harm himself. His current condition and whereabouts remain unknown.

Yarodar Vitlinets: Placed in solitary confinement after making public statements exposing the abuse of political prisoners.

All these examples are showing that there’s systematic abuse in your prisons. This is not acceptable. All those who are responsible in torture and abuse must be brought before the justice. The judicial process must be opened to the international observation.

STOP THE TORTURE AND MURDER OF POLITICAL PRISONERS IN UKRAINIAN PRISONS.

International Solidarity for Political Prisoners

United Kingdom