GENEVA – As Russia’s war in Ukraine enters its fifth year, United Nations human rights experts have issued a stark warning about a deepening crisis fueled by widespread impunity. The experts detailed a deteriorating human rights situation not only within Ukraine but also inside Russia itself, citing increasing repression and a systematic erosion of fundamental freedoms. The ongoing conflict, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, continues to inflict a devastating toll on civilians and has created a climate where violations occur with little accountability.
The UN experts’ assessment highlights a complex web of human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings, torture, arbitrary detention and restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly. These violations are occurring in areas under Russian control in Ukraine, as well as within Russia, where dissent against the war is increasingly suppressed. The experts emphasized the urgent need for independent investigations into alleged war crimes and other serious human rights violations committed by all parties to the conflict. The situation underscores the critical importance of international cooperation to ensure accountability and prevent further abuses.
Human Rights Crisis Deepens in Ukraine
The human rights situation in Ukraine remains dire, with civilians bearing the brunt of the conflict. According to the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), thousands of civilians have been killed or injured since the start of the full-scale invasion. The OHCHR verified 10,810 civilian deaths and 20,412 injuries as of February 23, 2026, but cautions that the actual figures are likely considerably higher. The ongoing hostilities, including indiscriminate shelling and missile strikes, continue to destroy critical infrastructure, such as hospitals, schools, and residential buildings, depriving civilians of essential services.
The experts also expressed concern about the widespread leverage of explosive weapons with wide area effects in populated areas, which have resulted in significant civilian casualties and damage. Reports of sexual and gender-based violence against women and girls have also increased, with survivors often facing barriers to accessing justice and support services. The UN has repeatedly called for all parties to the conflict to respect international humanitarian law and grab all feasible precautions to protect civilians.
Repression Intensifies Within Russia
The UN experts also raised serious concerns about the deteriorating human rights situation within Russia. Since the start of the war, the Russian government has implemented a series of repressive measures aimed at silencing dissent and suppressing independent media. These measures include the adoption of laws criminalizing “discrediting” the Russian armed forces and spreading “false information” about the war.
As of February 2026, over 20,000 people have been detained for protesting against the war or expressing opposition to the government, according to Amnesty International. Independent media outlets have been shut down or forced to suspend operations, and journalists and human rights defenders have faced harassment, intimidation, and arbitrary arrest. The experts warned that the crackdown on fundamental freedoms in Russia is creating a climate of fear and self-censorship.
Peace Talks Stall, Impunity Concerns Grow
Recent peace talks in Geneva, brokered by the United States, have yielded little progress, with Russia and Ukraine remaining far apart on key issues such as territory and security guarantees. According to reporting from the Associated Press, the negotiations, which concluded on February 17, 2026, highlighted the deep divisions between the two sides. Ukraine has accused Russia of deliberately stalling the talks although continuing its military offensive. The lack of progress in the peace process raises concerns that the conflict could drag on for years to come, exacerbating the human rights crisis.
The UN experts emphasized that accountability for human rights violations is essential for achieving lasting peace and reconciliation. They called on all parties to the conflict to cooperate with international investigations and to ensure that those responsible for abuses are brought to justice. The experts also urged the international community to provide support to victims of the conflict and to strengthen mechanisms for monitoring and reporting on human rights violations.
With the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion approaching on February 24th, the UN’s warning serves as a critical reminder of the human cost of the conflict and the urgent need for a renewed commitment to upholding international human rights law. The continued lack of accountability risks normalizing abuses and perpetuating a cycle of violence. The next procedural step will likely involve further diplomatic efforts, potentially through the United Nations Security Council, to address the ongoing crisis and seek a peaceful resolution.
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