Ukrainian Journalist Dies in Russian Detention

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Oct 12, 2024

Above: A colleague of Ukrainian journalist Victoria Roshchyna holds a photograph of her during an event in honor her memory at Independence Square in Kyiv, on October 11, 2024. Image copyright: Anatolii Stepanov/AFP/Contributor via Getty Imagesstory last updated Oct 12

The Facts

Victoria Roshchyna, an award-winning Ukrainian journalist who wrote first-hand accounts about life in Russian-occupied regions, died while in Russian custody, a letter received by her family confirmed this week.
Roshchyna's family received the letter from Russia's Ministry of Defense on Thursday, according to Reporters Without Borders (RSF). Without specifying any additional details, RSF said the ministry confirmed the death took place on Sept. 19.

The Spin

Pro-establishment narrative

This is now the 13th journalist to die as a result of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Russian officials never provided any information about Roshchyna's detention despite numerous requests from family, Ukrainian officials, and media organizations — that is unacceptable. They must shed light on all the circumstances surrounding her detention and death.

RSF

Pro-Ukraine narrative

Roshchyna was being held in solitary confinement in one of Russia's most brutal prisons, where the use of rubber batons and other torture techniques are notorious. There is no doubt she died in Russian hands, but a full investigation must be carried out to determine the nature of her death. Her murderers must be held to justice.

Ukrainska Pravda

Pro-Russia narrative

Once again, the West's hypocrisy is on display for the world to see. It's quick to condemn any perceived human rights abuses committed by its adversaries but remains silent when its own hands, or those of its allies, are muddied. As Washington ignores the atrocities committed against Russian reporters and fuels Israel's war in Gaza — which has taken countless journalists' lives — it seems it only follows a moral compass when convenient.