The Charity Fund Direct Inclusion continues to expose the crimes committed by Russian occupiers in Ukraine. Tragically, sexual violence by Russian forces is all too common, affecting men and women, children, and the elderly alike. Russian soldiers blatantly disregard the Geneva Conventions and International Law, which prohibit such actions.

A terrorist and a rapist: who is Maksym Lianchenko?

Maksym Lianchenko was born in Donetsk. He chose to remain there after the illegal occupation and joined the so-called «DPR», fighting in the 115th regiment even before February 24, 2022. By spring that year, he and other Russian occupiers had gone to the Kharkiv region.

The Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) has documented one of Lianchenko’s crimes. In late April, in the village of Verkhnia Rohanka, an armed occupier forced his way into a civilian home. Inside, he attempted to assault a 51-year-old woman. When she resisted, he beat her and fired shots into the air. When she was nearly unconscious from her injuries, he raped her, later threatening her with further violence if she spoke out of the crime.

Before the Ukrainian Armed Forces liberated the region, Maksym Lianchenko fled from Kharkiv. Although he continues to evade justice, the SSU has gathered evidence and formally charged him. He faces a prison sentence of 8 to 12 years.

Direct Inclusion`s mission: justice for war criminals

As of May 2024, Ukrainian Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets reported that authorities have documented 292 cases of sexual violence by Russian forces. However, the actual numbers are likely much higher due to difficulties gathering information.

Ukraine, along with its allies and international organizations, must do everything possible to assist and support those who have suffered from these brutal acts. Holding the aggressor accountable and securing reparations are essential steps.

Spread the word about Russia's war crimes using the hashtags #JusticeForUkraine and #Stopruscism, continue to donate, and never lose faith in Ukraine’s victory.

This material was compiled using publicly available internet sources.