Fact Check: Ukrainian Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko stated that Moscow has handed over the remains of both Russian and Ukrainian soldiers to Kyiv as part of a series of repatriations over the past two weeks.

Fact Check: "Ukrainian Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko stated that Moscow has handed over the remains of both Russian and Ukrainian soldiers to Kyiv as part of a series of repatriations over the past two weeks."

What We Know

Ukrainian Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko confirmed that during recent repatriation efforts, Moscow handed over remains that included both Russian and Ukrainian soldiers. Specifically, Klymenko stated that "the bodies of Russian soldiers were also handed over to us, mixed with the bodies of Ukrainians" (BBC, Meduza). The latest exchange involved the transfer of 1,245 bodies from Russia to Ukraine, with Klymenko noting that the identification process is complicated by the condition of the remains, which are often "extremely mutilated" and mixed up (RFE/RL, Pravda).

The Russian Defense Ministry reported a similar number of bodies exchanged, claiming that 1,248 Ukrainian soldiers' remains were returned, but Klymenko questioned the accuracy of this figure (BBC, Kyiv Independent). The repatriation deal was part of broader negotiations that took place in Istanbul, Turkey, earlier in June 2022 (RFE/RL).

Analysis

The statements made by Klymenko are corroborated by multiple sources, including reputable news outlets such as the BBC and RFE/RL. The reports indicate a consistent narrative regarding the mixed remains of soldiers from both sides, suggesting that Klymenko's claim is based on observed evidence during the repatriation process.

Klymenko's assertion that Russia is "deliberately complicating" the identification process is supported by the condition of the remains, which were described as being returned in a "mutilated state," with body parts often placed in separate bags (Meduza, RFE/RL). This claim reflects a broader concern regarding the handling of deceased soldiers in conflict, where identification can be a sensitive and challenging task.

The credibility of the sources reporting on this issue appears strong, as they are established news organizations with a history of covering the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. However, it is important to note that the ongoing war has led to a highly charged atmosphere, which can influence the framing of reports. Both sides have a vested interest in how these events are portrayed, which may introduce bias in the reporting.

Conclusion

The claim that Ukrainian Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko stated that Moscow has handed over the remains of both Russian and Ukrainian soldiers to Kyiv is True. The evidence from multiple reliable sources supports this assertion, highlighting the complexities and challenges involved in the repatriation of soldiers' remains during the ongoing conflict.

Sources

1. Russia and Ukraine fulfil deal to repatriate dead soldiers
2. Moscow included Russian soldiers' bodies in remains sent to Kyiv in repatriation exchange, Ukraine says
3. Moscow Mixing Up Body Parts And Sending Russian Remains, Complicating Identification Of War Dead, Ukraine Charges
4. Moscow handed over mixed remains of Russian and Ukrainian soldiers
5. Russia hands over bodies of its own soldiers in recent repatriation
6. Russia Mixes Remains of Its Own Soldiers With Ukrainians in Body Transfer
7. Kyiv accuses Moscow of handing over remains of dead Russian soldiers in repatriation deal
8. Russia Sends Back Dismembered Ukrainian Remains Mixed With Its Own Soldiers' Bodies