Key facts
- Two servicemen from Ukraine's Skelia regiment have been charged with torture and unlawful detention of fellow soldiers.
- The alleged abuse occurred in May 2026 after the victims violated hospital rules.
- One victim suffered a traumatic brain injury, broken nose, and other injuries.
- The investigation follows allegations of widespread abuse and at least 26 noncombat deaths within the regiment.
- The regiment's commander, Yurii Harkavyi, has been suspended.
Ukraine's State Bureau of Investigation has charged two servicemen from the medical unit of the Skelia regiment with allegedly torturing and unlawfully detaining two fellow soldiers. The charges stem from an incident in May 2026 in Kirovohrad Oblast, where the suspects are accused of punishing the victims for disciplinary violations by beating them and locking them in a utility building.
One of the victims sustained a traumatic brain injury, a broken nose, and other injuries, while the second was hospitalized with similar injuries after being held for nearly a day. Both suspects have been detained and face up to 10 years in prison if convicted.
This development is part of a widening investigation into alleged abuse within the Skelia regiment, which is one of Ukraine's largest assault formations. The probe follows a report by the outlet Babel, which documented at least 26 noncombat deaths among recruits between late 2025 and spring 2026, citing testimonies and various records. The State Bureau of Investigation is also examining whether military officials exceeded their authority under martial law.
Last month, the regiment's commander, Lieutenant Colonel Yurii Harkavyi, was suspended pending an investigation into alleged violations of soldiers' rights. Ukraine's Ground Forces have stated that violence, humiliation, and denial of medical care will not be tolerated if confirmed.