US claims Russia has list of Ukrainians ‘to be killed or sent to camps’: Report

The United States has claimed to have credible information that Russia has a list of Ukrainians “to be killed or sent to camps following a military occupation”, according to a letter accessed by The Washington Post on Sunday night.

The letter, addressed to the United Nations human rights chief Michelle Bachelet and written by the US ambassador to the UN, Bathsheba Crocker, alleges that Moscow’s plans following its invasion of Ukraine would involve “widespread human suffering” in the form of torture and forced disappearances. 

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There is no mention of the exact proof or form of intelligence that led the US to this conclusion. 

“I would like to bring to your attention disturbing information recently obtained by the United States that indicates that human rights violations and abuses in the aftermath of a further invasion are being planned,” it read.

The list of Ukrainians appears to include journalists, dissidents in exile in Ukraine, anti-corruption activists, and “vulnerable populations such as religious and ethnic minorities and LGBTQI+ persons.”

“These acts, which in past Russian operations have included targeted killings, kidnappings/forced disappearances, unjust detentions, and the use of torture, would likely target those who oppose Russian actions,” the letter said.

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“Specifically, we have credible information that indicates Russian forces are creating lists of identified Ukrainians to be killed or sent to camps following a military occupation,” the letter said. 

It further noted that the US had information that Moscow would possibly use ‘lethal measures to quash peaceful protests or resistance from the civilian population, according to The Washington Post.

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Russia has placed over 150,000 troops along Ukraine’s borders, sparking fears of invasion. While Western leaders have long speculated an attack, Moscow has consistently denied any such intention. 

According to CNN, the US has received intelligence that orders have already been sent to Russian commanders, instructing them to proceed with attacking Ukraine. The reports of such intelligence come from two US officials and one source familiar with US intelligence, the outlet reported. 

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin have agreed ‘in principle’ for a summit, on the condition that Moscow would not invade Ukraine, French presidency announced Monday.