Russia Reaches New Level of State-Sponsored Barbarism Against Ukraine

Russian state-sponsored barbarism since the start of this Russian war against Ukrainians has no bounds. As gruesome as it reads, the decapitation of prisoners of war is a bloody example of Russia’s total disregard for human lives—in this case, Ukrainian.

Since the Russian war against Ukraine resumed more than four years ago, we have provided numerous examples of its gross violations of common decency, rights of POWs, rights of humans, and notably children. We have written about their killing of unarmed civilians, rape and murder of young boys and girls, bombing of public transportation, apartment buildings and homes, supermarkets, and houses of worship. All of these heinous acts by the Russians against Ukrainians have been condemned by international organizations like the United Nations.

It seems that every dawn brings a new report of a new Russian crime against humanity.

The Kyiv Independent reported today that a Russian military commander ordered his troops to decapitate the bodies of two Ukrainian soldiers killed near Huliaipole and put them on display, according to Ukraine’s General Staff. "The enemy's cynicism and cruelty know no bounds," the General Staff wrote.

A Russian combat unit ambushed soldiers of Ukraine's 225th Separate Assault Regiment on the front lines near Huliaipole in Zaporizhzhia Oblast on May 12. Two Ukrainian soldiers were killed in battle. Intelligence intercepts showed that the commander of the Russian unit issued a direct order for his subordinates to cut the heads off the bodies of the fallen soldiers and place them in a "conspicuous spot" at the edge of the field. This was to be done "for confirmation," according to radio intercepts. The subordinate soldier reportedly expressed willingness to carry out this order.

The unit whose soldiers took part in the acts of desecration has been preliminarily identified. The commander who issued the order is believed to have previously ordered his troops to mock Ukrainian prisoners of war.

“By desecrating the bodies of fallen soldiers, the occupiers have once again demonstrated their sadistic nature and excessive, ostentatious cruelty,” the military said. “This is a gross, deliberate violation of the rules and customs of war — a war crime with no statute of limitations.”

A Pattern of State-Sponsored Barbarism

The recent report regarding the beheading of fallen Ukrainian soldiers is not an isolated incident of madness. It is a calculated tool of psychological warfare and a direct reflection of Moscow’s cruel military doctrine. To provide a broader context for this latest report, here is a summary of documented atrocities that demonstrate the systemic nature of these crimes:

1. Systematic Execution of Prisoners of War: The Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine is currently investigating dozens of cases where Ukrainian servicemen were executed after surrendering. Notable incidents near Avdiivka and Robotyne show a recurring pattern: Russian forces filming the execution of unarmed soldiers with their hands raised, violating the most fundamental protections of the Geneva Conventions.

2. The Infrastructure of Torture: From the liberation of the Kyiv and Sumy regions to the ongoing occupation of southern Ukraine, “torture chambers” (kativni) have been discovered in nearly every liberated town. Evidence from sites in Bucha and Trostyanets reveals the use of electric shocks, mock executions, and captives being starved and denied medical care.

3. Chemical Warfare and Prohibited Weapons: Beyond physical mutilation, Moscow continues to deploy chemical agents via drones (such as K-51 grenades). This use of riot control agents as a weapon of war is a direct violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention, further proving that the Kremlin views international law as non-binding.

Editorial Note: The Roots of Impunity

These acts are the inevitable result of decades of unpunished crimes in Chechnya and Syria. When the international community fails to hold the perpetrator accountable, "barbarism" becomes a standardized military tactic. For the readers of The Torn Curtain 1991, these events serve as a stark reminder that we are not just witnessing a territorial aggression, but a fundamental struggle against a regime that has abandoned the very concept of human rights.

It is inconceivable that any human being wouldn’t cringe at these reports. That’s why Ukrainian American voters can’t understand the White House’s silence. Ukrainian American voters won’t forget this come Election Day.

 US Foreign Policy Should Follow Kelly, not Trump

With the midterm and Presidential elections just around the corner, both political parties should review their foreign policy positions. As far as we’re concerned, the Democratic Party’s approach to issues about Ukraine and Russian aggression does not require adjustment. However, the Republican Party, especially its potential candidates, President Donald Trump and Vice-President JD Vance, should compose another platform, one that is palatable to American voters, especially those who hail from the former captive nations and their descendants.

I believe that Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) is worthy of consideration.

Speaking during the Face the Nation broadcast on Sunday, May 10, Kelly was asked about his upcoming trip to Ukraine (scheduled for early June). He emphasized that the Trump Administration’s approach—specifically the weakening of sanctions and the lack of military pressure—is emboldening Moscow rather than ending the war.

Kelly also observed:

“I think one of the obstacles to peace is that Donald Trump hasn't provided the Ukrainian government and the Ukrainian people with the support that Ukraine needs.”

“We’ve seen this over and over again, this strange relationship he has with Putin. He refuses to press Putin... He’s backed off on sanctions.”

“This administration is not using the sanction power they have against Russia... we’re trying to get them to put more sanctions in place, and this administration is taking sanctions off of Russians.”

That, in a nutshell, is quite palatable to Ukrainian American voters and others who hail directly or indirectly from the x-captive nations.

Russian Latest Drone Attack on Ukraine, notably Western Regions, Greatest to Date

Sources in Ukraine report that Russian invaders today launched the largest attack on Western Ukraine since the start of the full-scale invasion.

Consequences of the daytime drone attack:

• Rivne — 3 dead, 4 wounded.

• Lutsk — Preliminary reports of a strike on the SBU (Security Service of Ukraine) building.

• Kovel — Strike near the railway station; buses, shuttles, and cars damaged.

• Zakarpattia — Strike on an energy facility in Svalyava; a massive fire is reported on-site.

• Khmelnytskyi — 3 wounded reported in the Khmelnytskyi community.

• Ivano-Frankivsk & Kolomyia — Explosions heard; emergency power outages in effect.

• Zhytomyr Region — Strikes in Zviahel and Olevsk. Fire reported in the Korosten district.

• Vinnytsia Region — A residential building and the premises of an agricultural enterprise damaged.

• Odesa — Strike on a building roof; 2 people injured.

• Kyiv — Debris fell in the Obolon district.

• Kherson — Strike on a residential building and a private car.

• Cherkasy Region — Three people injured; residential buildings damaged.

• Lviv Region — Currently under UAV (drone) attack. Stryi and Drohobych are repelling the assault.

Russian "Shahed" drones also violated Moldovan airspace. It was spotted over Călărași, heading toward Lozova in the central part of the country. The Moldovan Ministry of Defense confirmed the border violation, stating the UAV entered via the Ocnița district.

Today’s Russian offensive is expected to last until noon tomorrow: a missile launch is anticipated tonight, followed by another wave of drones — Advisor to the Minister of Defense, Flesh.

The End is near for Putin and His Russia

It has been said that when the commander in chief is faced with scandalous, humiliating public defeat, he unholsters his sidearm and joins his ancestors. The Japanese do it.

This embarrassing situation is unfolding for #Russia and Putin in Moscow. After toning down the usual hype ahead to its annual May 9 pageant, #Putin announced that Mother Russia’s not-so glorious band of cutthroats will not be present at the upcoming civilian low-key event.

President Trump, are you following the pitiful display of #Putin’s power at The Parade in #Moscow?

Mr. #Zelenskyy has agreed to Putin’s plea not to bomb the parade but noted that beyond the parade grounds everything is a fair military target.

It seems Putin has declared to the world that Russia is in fact subservient to #Ukraine and is Ukraine’s colony.

Knowing how Russia behaves in these situations, his successor is already chomping at the bit. Who will it be? Someone in the limelight or someone in the shadows? Will the coup be violent or not?

Equally interesting is the question of who will earn the favor of President Trump? Where will you stand, Mr. Trump?

It seems that after all Zelenskyy and not Putin has the cards/numbers! 

Putin’s days are numbered and hopefully the White House has given the President sound advice.

Remember, Mr. President, he who stands with Putin/Russia is a fool.

Soldier Turned Academic Explains why War with Russia was Inevitable

A Ukrainian academic turned soldier turned academic has held on tightly to his conviction that no matter what is happening in international affairs, war with Russia is inevitable.

And thus we have another drastic explanation, clarification or justification why more than a decade ago I selected as the name for my blog “The Torn Curtain 1991.”

Yes, 35 years ago, the Ukrainian nation declared its independence and sovereignty from the Russian empire after centuries of subjugation. History has taught us that in the course of those centuries every flash of Ukrainian independence and the germination of a Ukrainian state in one fell swoop Russia – tsarist, communist or putinist – destroyed it. And for the most part, until now, Moscow was at least temporarily successful. In the 20^th century alone, Ukrainians several times established and reestablished their national statehood only to be vanquished each time by Russia with the naïve aid of Western allies.

On November 9, 1989, the infamous Berlin Wall, the ultimate barrier between Russia and the free nations, between evil and good, was destroyed by the people, and the captive nations cheered their new found freedoms. The Iron Curtain was torn down and trampled on.

However, was that the end of the division and oppression? Fortunately, for some, especially those who were destined for membership in NATO, their path to freedom and independence had triumphantly concluded and the western powerhouses assured it.

In the past, Ukraine – independent or not – was left out in the cold, only to be re-subjugated by Moscow. With Russian aggressive desires not slaked, Ukraine was bound to become enslaved again. Those attempts resumed 14 years ago in Eastern Ukraine and Crimea and then four years ago across the country. Thus, for Ukraine, the Iron Curtain was not destroyed; it was merely torn, leaving gaps for Russia soldiers, tanks and artillery to invade Ukraine again.

Ihor “Batko” Zhaloba, who enlisted to fight against the Russian invaders in 2014, foresaw the inevitability of war with Russia but apparently no one was able to prevent it. He explained that Russia’s historical path was preordained for war and Ukraine has been its primary target.

In a recent article by Julia Struck-Feshchenko in the Kyiv Post, Zhaloba, explained that when Russia launched its full-scale invasion 2022, he did not hesitate to enlist. He volunteered to defend Ukraine and served until he was demobilized at the age of 60.

Zhaloba spent decades studying Russian history before volunteering to fight it. His verdict: Europe remains dangerously unprepared, and Ukraine is the continent’s last line of defense.

Ihor Zhaloba – known by the callsign “Batko” (Father) – is a Doctor of Historical Sciences, professor, and Senior Research Fellow at the Department of History of International Relations and Foreign Policy of Ukraine of the Institute of History of Ukraine, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine. He is also a teaching professor in the Department of International Relations at Borys Hrinchenko Kyiv University and president of the Ukrainian branch of the Pan-European Movement.

Today, he has returned to academic life at the Institute of History of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, while continuing to lecture across Europe, raise awareness about the war, support Ukraine through volunteer work, and honor fallen comrades.

He also serves as president of the Ukrainian branch of the Pan-European Movement – a political and cultural initiative founded in 1922 to promote European unity in response to nationalism and conflict.

A professor of history and its in-depth student, Zhaloba enunciated that another Russian war against Ukraine was unavoidable. “My professional background led me to conclude that war was inevitable,” he said. “For me, it was only a matter of time before these two antagonistic models – Ukrainian and Russian – would collide.”

“I had studied Russian history for many years. As a historian, I understood the mentality and way of life of that country. The principle ‘we will not stand at any cost – we need victory’ can be consistently traced throughout the history of the Muscovite state and, later, Russia,” he said.

“This is the mode of existence of that state: it must expand its borders. In peacetime, it has nothing to sustain itself with. They have not even built proper sanitation infrastructure to this day, and struggle to organize their internal life. Therefore, Russians go elsewhere to seize what they are incapable of creating themselves.”

Until February 24, 2022, when Russia launched its latest invasion of Ukraine, Zhaloba said a large number of Ukrainians did not fully realize that Ukrainians had already been at war since 2014. “Back then, it felt distant to many of us – just as it still feels distant for many Europeans today,” he said.

“In December 2021, I told my students – whom I taught in the course ‘Civilizational Dimension of Modern International Relations’ – that there would be a major war with Russia.” Later, his students told him: “Ihor Volodymyrovych, back then we didn’t believe you.”

“This is the mode of existence of that state: it must expand its borders. In peacetime, it has nothing to sustain itself with. They have not even built proper sanitation infrastructure to this day, and struggle to organize their internal life. Therefore, Russians go elsewhere to seize what they are incapable of creating themselves.

“I also recalled the Russian philosopher Vasily Rozanov, who once said: ‘Why would you need freedom? Freedom is necessary for substance, so that it can develop – but what kind of freedom, and to what end, is it for something without substance? And Russian society, after all, has no substance.’ In that sense, they do not need freedom, because there is nothing to develop – Russian society is empty.”

While Russia was also facing its own internal struggles, he said Ukrainian society, meanwhile, has managed to overcome economic and political challenges. Since 2001, Ukrainians have ensured economic growth while preserving their freedom – and they value it, because it allows their “substance” to develop.

“This represents an existential threat to the Russian model, in which Ukrainians have always been perceived as ‘younger brothers,’ incapable of independent existence and supposedly needing the ‘guiding hand’ of big brother Russia,” he elaborated.

Since the presidency of Boris Yeltsin, he continued, there were expectations in Russia that Ukraine would collapse and return “on its knees” in exchange for cheap gas, timber, and other resources. “These expectations were never fulfilled,” he pointed out.

For him, Russia is the last colonial empire. “History shows that all colonial empires eventually collapse, and Russia should be no exception. However, it is not a classic colonial empire like the Roman or British empires,” he added.

Zhaloba elaborated that Russia would need to be an external shock – some form of defeat – that triggers internal instability. For example, Russia’s defeat in the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905 led to the revolution of 1905-1907. Similarly, the strain of World War I triggered the February Revolution, followed by the October Revolution in 1917.

“However, even if Russia begins to fragment, Ukraine would still have to continue fighting and maintain forces to stabilize its borders,” he said.

Why is the West so afraid of Russia’s collapse? Replying to his question, because it would likely be chaotic, uncontrolled, and extremely violent – especially given the presence of nuclear weapons. Many oppressed peoples within Russia could seek revenge against those who dominated them. The consequences would be brutal and destabilizing, affecting not only the region but the wider world.

His optimism and dedication are fed by his being a teacher and love of working with his students. “For 30 years, I have been telling them: ‘Take responsibility – your future, your life, your country are in your hands.’ So what then – should I have left and gone abroad? For me, my students are like my children. Who, then, was supposed to stand up for them?”

It’s teachers, historians and soldiers like Ihor Zhaloba who imbue current and future generations of Ukrainians with an indelible sense of patriotism.This is why President Zelenskyy is demanding strict, permanent security guarantees for his country and nation. If President Trump and the West don’t want to face another case of Russian inevitability then it behooves them to accept Kyiv’s insistence of strict security guarantees. 

Another Painful Nod to Russia: It’s not ‘Aggression’ but a ‘Situation’ and ‘Conflict’

In the White House’s continuing effort to rewrite history and downplay Russia’s role in global and regional aggression, the United States voted in favor of Moscow’s amendment to an International Labor Organization (ILO) resolution that eliminated the word “aggression” from a clause describing Russia’s bloody invasion of Ukraine while replacing it with the meaningless word “situation,.” according to the website Geneva Solutions.

Russia, which was referred to as an aggressor in the original version, would be recast as a “party to the conflict.” Washington endorsed all of Russia’s efforts to rewrite the narrative and redefine the nature of the war, the website stated.

Since its adoption in March 2022, following Russia’s invasion, the resolution has been renewed twice a year at sessions of the ILO Governing Body in Geneva, each time by a large majority. Following Donald Trump’s return to the Oval Office,, Washington first distanced itself from the position held by pro-Ukrainian European countries – the main backers of the text – before voting in favor of Russian amendments for the first time last autumn.

This spring, the US reaffirmed its alignment with Moscow, becoming one of four countries, along with China and Niger, out of 56 voting countries to do so. This new Russia-China-US bloc has emerged at the International Labor Organization, seeking to water down a European-led resolution condemning Ukraine's invasion. US workers and employers have reportedly opposed the alliance.

When asked for an explanation, the US Mission to the United Nations in Geneva referred inquiries to the State Department’s communications services in Washington, which did not respond to the Swiss newspaper Le Temps. Speaking privately, US representatives defended this new position “in the name of peace” and to “avoid politicising the issue.” This poor excuse for an explanation sounds like something that Putin’s “Squealer” Dmitry Pesko would contrive.

Geneva Solutions pointed out that, in practice, however, Washington is playing into Moscow’s hands, a comment about the White House that has been echoed on Capitol Hill. It also reflects a new configuration in which Russia, China, and the US have formed a tactical alignment against Ukrainian and European interests. After withdrawing from the Human Rights Council and the World Health Organization, the US latest change in position stands to further weaken the former Western alliance. Ukrainian authorities did not comment on the US vote. The ILO said the minutes of the latest Governing Body session will be posted online “within roughly two weeks.”

The ILO resolution on Russia’s aggression against Ukraine was first adopted a month after the war broke out, with the support of the Biden administration and a large majority of governments (28 full members), as well as employer (14) and worker (14) representatives. The text urges Russia to immediately cease its aggression, withdraw from occupied territories and provide assistance to Ukraine.

Blaise Matthey, spokesperson for the ILO employer group and vice-president for Europe and Central Asia, confirmed that the group rejected the Russian amendments, as did the worker group. Russia’s proposals were ultimately struck down, and the resolution was extended without a vote.

“The only country to have changed its position is the US,” noted Swiss trade unionist and ILO expert Luca Cirigliano. “Despite the current Russia-China-Iran-Belarus axis, other countries in Africa, South America and Asia are not shifting in Russia’s favour. This shows that, ultimately, within UN agencies, neither China, nor Trump’s US, nor Russia dictate outcomes.”

Under these circumstances, it would be difficult for the White House to deny its blatant support for Putin’s Russia, thus tarnishing America’s historic position as a defender of the former captive nations a few months ahead of the mid-term elections. Sadly, Republicans may be compelled to pay for this in the polls later this year and in 2028. Ukrainian American voters will remember. 

Russia Launches 400 Drones against Ukraine in Daytime Attack
The evil empire launched more than 400 drones at Ukraine in a rare though increasingly frequent daytime attack, injuring 12 people in Ternopil, Ukrainian officials said on Friday, May 1.
Ukraine’s air force said Russia attacked the country with 409 drones between 8 am and 3.30 pm local time (3:00 am and 10:30 am New York time). Air force units downed or neutralized 388 of them in the north, south, center  and west of the country, it said. 
The air force had earlier said Russia sent 210 drones at Ukraine in an overnight attack.
Here is how reports of the bombardment appeared on the Ternopil Telegram site:
Ternopil Without Power
As a result of a massive attack by enemy drones, parts of Ternopil have been left without electricity.
The following neighborhoods are currently without power:
— Kanada
— City Center
— Novyi Svit
— Staryi Park
— part of the Soniachnyi district
Explosions were heard in the city during the air‑raid alert, and air defense was operating. Due to the danger, public transportation was also temporarily suspended.
Residents are urged to remain in shelters and follow safety guidelines.
Information regarding the consequences of the attack and the restoration of electricity is being clarified.
More than 50 drones attacked Ternopil: at least 10 injured.
There are reports of strikes on industrial and infrastructure facilities. All relevant services are working at the sites.
As of now, reports indicate at least 10 injured. Among the victims are people in serious condition. All are receiving the necessary medical care. There is currently no information about fatalities.
Due to infrastructure damage, several neighborhoods in the city remain without electricity. Emergency crews are already working to restore power.
Dangerous debris from downed drones may also remain in the city. Rescuers from the State Emergency Service of Ukraine urge residents not to approach or touch suspicious objects.
It is especially important to warn children: any found debris may pose a deadly danger. If suspicious items are discovered, residents should immediately call 101. 
A police coordination center has been set up in Ternopil to assist those affected.
The main tasks of the center are coordinating emergency services, assisting with evacuation, documenting damaged property, and informing the public. Residents can also file reports about lost or damaged property, receive legal consultations, psychological support, and request medical or humanitarian assistance.
Explosive ordnance technicians, investigative teams, patrol officers, rescuers, medical personnel, and other services are working at the strike sites.
As of 17:00, there are reports of 12 injured. All are receiving the necessary medical care.
According to Reuters, since the beginning of the war m As of now, reports indicate at least 10 injured. Among the victims are people in serious condition. All are receiving the necessary medical care. There is currently no information about fatalities.
Due to infrastructure damage, several neighborhoods in the city remain without electricity. Emergency crews are already working to restore power.
Dangerous debris from downed drones may also remain in the city. Rescuers from the State Emergency Service of Ukraine urge residents not to approach or touch suspicious objects.
It is especially important to warn children: any found debris may pose a deadly danger. If suspicious items are discovered, residents should immediately call 101. (Ukraine’s version of 911.)
A police coordination center has been set up in Ternopil to assist those affected.
The main tasks of the center are coordinating emergency services, assisting with evacuation, documenting damaged property, and informing the public. Residents can also file reports about lost or damaged property, receive legal consultations, psychological support, and request medical or humanitarian assistance.
Explosive ordnance technicians, investigative teams, patrol officers, rescuers, medical personnel, and other services are working at the strike sites.
As of 5 pm local time there were reports of 12 injured. All are receiving the necessary medical care. ore than four years ago, Russia has mainly carried out major drone and missile strikes at night. In recent weeks, it has repeatedly sent hundreds of drones and missiles during the daytime, setting a record for the number of weapons used in one such strike on March 24. 
In Ternopil, which lies some 150-200 km from the Polish border, a dozen people were hurt in the attack, which hit industrial and infrastructure facilities, the city’s mayor, Serhiy Nadal, said. 
The attack also caused blackouts in some areas, Nadal said on Telegram, adding that more than 50 drones had been involved. 
In central Ukraine, 19 drones were downed over the Cherkasy region, the regional governor said, reporting damage to a nursery, a school, seven private houses and a power line. 
A woman was hurt in the central Vinnytsia region, the local governor said, adding that a building was destroyed in the attack. 
Near the southern city of Odesa, which had come under regular overnight attacks, another daytime attack damaged the roof of a shopping center and caused a fire, the regional governor said. 
The attack on Ternopil follows an attack by Ukrainians on a major oil refinery in the Black Sea port city of Tuapse for the fourth time in two weeks as authorities struggled with a mounting environmental disaster from toxic black smoke clouds and oil leaking into the sea.