Fact Check: Over 50 Ukrainian prisoners of war were killed in the Olenivka attack.

Fact Check: "Over 50 Ukrainian prisoners of war were killed in the Olenivka attack."

What We Know

On July 29, 2022, an explosion occurred at a prison in Olenivka, Donetsk Oblast, where Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) were held. Reports indicate that between 53 to 62 Ukrainian POWs were killed in this incident, with additional casualties among the wounded ranging from 75 to 130 (see Wikipedia). The victims were primarily soldiers from the Azov regiment, who had previously defended the Azovstal steel plant during the siege of Mariupol (NPR).

The Ukrainian General Staff alleged that the explosion was orchestrated by Russian forces to cover up ongoing torture and murder of POWs (Wikipedia). In contrast, Russian officials claimed that the explosion was caused by a Ukrainian HIMARS rocket strike, a narrative widely disputed by independent investigations (CNN).

Analysis

The evidence surrounding the Olenivka attack has been scrutinized by various independent sources. Investigations by forensic experts and media outlets have largely discredited the Russian narrative of a HIMARS strike. For example, a CNN analysis concluded that the damage observed was inconsistent with a HIMARS attack and suggested that the explosion was likely caused by an incendiary device detonated from within the prison (CNN).

Furthermore, a UN internal analysis, released in July 2024, confirmed that Russia was responsible for the explosion, stating that it was planned and executed by Russian forces (Kyiv Independent). This finding is supported by the testimonies of witnesses and the circumstances surrounding the explosion, including the lack of medical assistance for the injured and the dense placement of beds in the barracks, which hindered evacuation efforts (Wikipedia).

The reliability of the sources reporting on the Olenivka attack varies. While Russian state media often presents narratives that align with government interests, independent investigations and reports from reputable international organizations, such as the UN and various news agencies, have provided a more credible account of the events.

Conclusion

The claim that "over 50 Ukrainian prisoners of war were killed in the Olenivka attack" is True. Multiple credible sources confirm that the death toll was indeed between 53 and 62, with significant evidence pointing to Russian responsibility for the explosion. The overwhelming consensus among independent investigations supports this conclusion, making the claim accurate.