An independent probe into Russia's invasion of Ukraine has concluded that the deportation and transfer of 1,205 children from occupied areas to Russia or other occupied territories are crimes against humanity. The Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine stated that Russian authorities committed two types of crimes against humanity: deportation and forcible transfer of children, as well as their enforced disappearance.
While Russia claimed these relocations were humanitarian evacuations, the commission found that 80 percent of the documented children have not been returned, violating international humanitarian law. Many parents remain unaware of their children's fate. Instead of facilitating return, Russian authorities arranged for long-term placement with families or institutions, a plan executed at the highest levels of the Russian state.
In March 2023, the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin for alleged war crimes related to the deportation and illegal transfer of children.
The probe also uncovered evidence of mistreatment among the children who did return, including insufficient medical care and food. One case documented a teenager's desire to return home leading to potential police involvement, and another tragically ended in a young adolescent's suicide.
Separately, the commission investigated the treatment of Russian soldiers, interviewing 85 deserters who reported extreme violence and coercion by commanders, describing soldiers as "cannon fodder." Evidence suggests intentional disregard for human life and dignity, often with the knowledge or order of commanders. Recruits from 17 countries were also found to have been deceived with false job promises and coerced into fighting.