(KURSHCHYNA, UKRAINE) – The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has obtained a full confession from a Russian soldier involved in the execution of nine Ukrainian prisoners of war during operations in Kursk region.
The soldier, identified as Sergei Skobelyev of Russia’s 155th Separate Pacific Fleet Brigade, was captured by Ukrainian forces in October 2024. Investigation shows that, acting under orders as head of an assault unit, Skobelyev and an accomplice took nine Ukrainian soldiers prisoner after a combat engagement.
The POWs were forced to undress and lie on the ground and were assured they would be exchanged. Contrary to the promise, the Russian soldiers executed all nine prisoners with standard issue firearms. Following the killings, the group collected the victims’ mobile phones and radios before continuing military operations.
Skobelyev initially denied involvement, but SBU investigators gathered conclusive evidence prompting his full confession. Ukrainian authorities say the act constitutes a grave breach of the Geneva Conventions and other international laws regarding the treatment of prisoners of war.
A formal criminal case is being prepared, and the soldier will face severe punishment under Ukrainian law. The SBU continues to gather evidence against other Russian personnel involved in war crimes in Ukraine.
The confession forms part of Ukraine’s ongoing documentation of the Russian military’s violations amid the ongoing conflict.
