Gerasymyuk: The Murder of Victoria Roschyna is a Signal from Russia to Journalists Worldwide

During a roundtable discussion at Ukrinform, Olga Gerasymyuk, the head of the National Council of Ukraine on Television and Radio Broadcasting, expressed her views on the murder of journalist Victoria Roschyna, stating that this tragic incident serves as a clear signal from Russia to all journalists around the world. She emphasized that the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has documented numerous cases of persecution by Russia against those it considers opponents of the occupation, with journalists being among the first on this list of civilians.

Gerasymyuk pointed out that female journalists are subjected not only to physical but also to psychological torture, sexual violence related to the conflict, as well as isolation and denial of medical assistance. She stressed that the brutal murder of Victoria Roschyna has become a horrifying symbol of these crimes, and that this message from Russia is directed at every female and male journalist, not only in Ukraine but also to anyone daring to seek the truth in occupied territories.

The head of the National Council also highlighted that at the 70th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women, Ukraine called on the international community to investigate this murder. She underscored the importance of the international community not remaining indifferent to such crimes, as they pertain not only to Ukraine but also to the overall safety of journalists worldwide.

According to Gerasymyuk, data from the Institute of Mass Information indicates that Russia has committed over 900 crimes against journalists, and since the onset of the full-scale war, 125 media workers have lost their lives. These figures reflect the serious threat faced by journalists, particularly in wartime conditions, where their role as witnesses to events becomes even more critically important.

Olga Gerasymyuk also noted that approximately 16,000 civilians are currently being unlawfully held by Russia in occupied territories. She emphasized that journalists in this horrific pyramid are merely the visible part, as they at least receive some attention, albeit insufficient. Journalists symbolize what this terror is directed against—memory, testimonies, and truth.

Gerasymyuk highlighted that at least 30 journalists, of whom there is knowledge, are currently imprisoned by Russia, and these crimes continue unabated. She called for active measures from the international community to draw attention to these human rights violations and to support journalists who risk their lives for the sake of truth.

It is worth recalling that on March 27, 2026, renowned cameraman of the Television News Service (TSN) and serviceman Yevheniy Solovey was killed at the front. This incident further underscores the dangers faced by journalists in wartime conditions.

Join our Telegram, Instagram, and YouTube channels to stay updated on the latest news and events.