Desperate to Escape: The Fight to Save Civilians in Ukraine

Executive Summary

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, civilians in occupied and front-line areas have been subjected to heavy bombing of their communities, torture, abductions, and forced deportations. Human Rights First has conducted 19 research visits to Ukraine’s eastern front, working with local human rights defenders (HRDs) to evacuate civilians and document these violations. Escape routes from Russian-occupied areas are dangerous, costly, and involve detours through Russia and Belarus. Vulnerable groups face additional risks, while many others remain trapped or unable to leave. As ceasefire talks raise fears of legitimizing Russian occupation, evacuation efforts and international support are more urgent than ever. This report was researched by Human Rights First’s Senior Advisor Brian Dooley.

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