Russian troops in Zaporizhzhia reportedly execute Ukrainian POWs, audio evidence emerges

Audio intercepted from Russian communication channels appears to capture soldiers of the 38th independent motorized rifle brigade in Zaporizhzhia receiving a directive from brigade commander Valerij Kazak to "finish the wounded" and subsequently "kill them immediately." Makszim Kravcsuk, spokesperson for the Ukrainian southern forces, reported that the order was carried out, resulting in the execution of two Ukrainian prisoners of war.

He said the recordings were obtained by monitoring Russian channels and will serve as evidence in an upcoming court case against the perpetrators for war crimes. Kravcsuk added that the killings took place a few days ago and were initiated by Kazak. The episode adds to a series of alleged violations of the laws of armed conflict by Russian forces in the ongoing war.