Inside the Torture Facility in Taganrog: The Horrific Story of Ukrainian Journalist Victoria Roskina

A major investigative report by 13 international media outlets, including The Guardian, Washington Post, and Le Monde, coordinated by Forbidden Stories, sheds light on the dark realities of Taganrog near Mariupol. This is where 27-year-old Ukrainian journalist Victoria Roskina was held before her brutal death. Her body was returned mutilated—eyes, brain, and throat removed. Before Russia’s invasion in February 2022, this facility housed juvenile detainees and mothers with young children. However, it later transformed into a torture center for Ukrainian prisoners. One such victim was Elizabeth Silik, who endured extreme abuse after being captured in January 2023 while trying to escape an occupied area. Common methods used included electric shocks, drowning simulations, beatings, and degrading practices like binding individuals with tape and using them as ‘human furniture.’ Former detainees reported forbidden use of the Ukrainian language, severe food restrictions, and even suicide encouragement. Violence began upon arrival with a so-called ‘welcome’ ritual involving beatings and humiliation. Food portions were minimal, leading some prisoners to save meals for dinner. Systematic torture occurred during daily cell inspections and interrogations. Former soldier Sergei Taraniuk described being thrown to the floor and beaten repeatedly. All Ukrainian detainees recounted experiencing torture. Specialized FSB units conducted these atrocities with impunity, often masked or hooded. Initially aimed at extracting information, the violence also served as ethnic degradation against Ukrainians. At least 15 deaths have been documented in Taganrog based on testimonies from released prisoners.