The body of 27-year-old Ukrainian journalist Victoria Roshchyna has been returned to her homeland, following a brutal and harrowing ordeal under the hands of Russian authorities. Roshchyna, who went missing in August 2023 during a work trip to Russian-occupied Ukraine, was confirmed dead in early 2025. In February, her body was part of a prisoner exchange, but the horrors she endured in her final moments have only recently come to light.
Ukrainian war crimes prosecutor Yuriy Belousov disclosed that a forensic investigation revealed chilling evidence of prolonged torture and mistreatment. Her body bore numerous signs of abuse, including abrasions, hemorrhages, a broken rib, and what appeared to be traces of electric shock. Despite Russia’s attempts to hide her identity by labeling the body as “an unidentified male,” DNA tests conclusively confirmed it was Victoria.
In a disturbing twist, portions of her body, including her brain, eyeballs, and part of her trachea, were missing upon its return—an evident attempt to disguise who she truly was. This cruel act has only deepened the outrage over the injustice she suffered.
Her colleague and fellow journalist, Evgeniya Motorevskaya, poignantly reflected, “Vika was always where the most important events were unfolding for her country. She would have continued this vital work for many more years, but the Russians took her life.” Roshchyna’s dedication to journalism and her unwavering commitment to truth will never be forgotten.
In a separate but related development, former U.S. President Donald Trump spoke out about his views on Russian President Vladimir Putin’s ambitions, particularly after Putin’s ‘100 Days’ interview. Trump remarked, “If it weren’t for me, I think Putin would want to take over the whole country [Ukraine].” He further expressed his discontent, saying, “I was not happy when I saw Putin shooting missiles into towns and cities.”
Victoria Roshchyna’s tragic fate serves as a stark reminder of the brutal reality of the ongoing conflict. Rest in peace, Vika. Your courage and sacrifice will forever be remembered.
