Viktoriia Roshchyna, a courageous and determined Ukrainian journalist, has passed away under tragic circumstances after spending 15 months in Russian detention. Her death marks the heartbreaking end of a life dedicated to reporting on the war in Ukraine and the atrocities committed by the Russian military. Roshchyna, known as Vika to her colleagues and friends, was a dedicated reporter who lost her life in the struggle to tell the world about the suffering in the occupied territories of Ukraine.
What Happened to Viktoriia “Vika” Roshchyna?
Viktoriia Roshchyna’s death was confirmed on October 10, 2024, after her body was returned to Ukraine by Russian authorities in February 2025, along with the bodies of 756 fallen soldiers. Roshchyna had been detained by Russia in the occupied territories of Ukraine in 2023 during her coverage of the conflict. Her family had lost contact with her on August 3, 2023, and she was later confirmed to have been captured by Russian forces. Tragically, Roshchyna died on September 19, 2024, during her transfer to Moscow.
A forensic investigation into her body found signs of severe abuse and torture, including bleeding, broken ribs, and likely electric shock marks. The absence of internal organs such as the brain and eyeballs has fueled suspicions that she may have been killed by suffocation or strangulation. The Ukrainian Prosecutor General’s Office has opened a criminal investigation into Roshchyna’s death, treating it as a war crime and intentional murder.
Why Is Viktoriia Roshchyna’s Case Significant?
Viktoriia Roshchyna’s death has shocked the international community and her colleagues in journalism. Her body was found marked as “unidentified male” among a group of deceased soldiers, highlighting the brutality she faced in custody. The 27-year-old was a rising star in Ukrainian journalism, having worked for multiple media outlets, including Ukrayinska Pravda, Censor.net, Radio Free Europe, and Hromadske. Her reporting on the Russian invasion of Ukraine earned her the Courage in Journalism Award in 2022, a testament to her unwavering dedication to truth.
Her case has drawn attention to the plight of journalists and civilians caught in the crossfire of the ongoing war. It also highlights the broader issue of detained media workers, with Reporters Without Borders noting that 29 Ukrainian media workers are still in Russian custody.
The Trauma and Impact on the Family
Roshchyna’s family has struggled to understand the circumstances of her death, and her father was informed only in a letter from the Russian Ministry of Defense. The investigation into her death and the torture she endured has brought attention to the horrors faced by journalists in conflict zones and the disregard for human rights by Russian authorities.
Tetyana Katrychenko of the Media Initiative for Human Rights described the Taganrog prison, where Roshchyna was held, as a “hell on earth,” where many prisoners, including defenders of Mariupol’s Azovstal steelworks, were subjected to extreme abuse.
Tributes and Recognition
Roshchyna’s loss has caused deep sadness among her colleagues and fellow journalists. Her editor-in-chief at Ukrainska Pravda, Ye, praised her authenticity and tenacity, calling her one of the most difficult yet most dedicated journalists to work with. She was remembered not only for her professional skills but also for her personal resilience and determination.
Ukrainian parliament has posthumously awarded Roshchyna the Order of Freedom in recognition of her courage and dedication to Ukraine’s sovereignty. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also confirmed that she would receive the title Heroine of Ukraine once investigations are complete.
The Legacy of Viktoriia Roshchyna
Viktoriia Roshchyna’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of journalists. Her bravery in the face of unimaginable danger, her commitment to reporting the truth, and her love for her country will never be forgotten. As the world mourns the loss of this remarkable young woman, her story serves as a reminder of the dangers journalists face in conflict zones and the sacrifices made by those who risk everything to report the truth.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
The post Viktoriia “Vika” Roshchyna, Ukrainian Journalist, Dies in Russian Custody After Torture and Abuse first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
