Ukrainian detainees stage hunger strike at Georgia border

On August 6, 2025, reports emerged concerning a group of at least 15 Ukrainian citizens who have been trapped in a cramped, windowless basement near the Russian-Georgian border for over two months. These detainees are part of a broader group of approximately 100 Ukrainians stranded at the buffer zone at Georgia's Dariali border crossing. They are demanding essential rights, including a visit from a Ukrainian consul, clarification regarding their detention, and immediate access to food and medical care. The distressing conditions of their confinement have led them to declare a hunger strike in a desperate attempt to draw attention to their plight. The detainees consist of former prisoners deported by Russia after serving their sentences, as well as civilians who opposed Russia’s aggressive actions against Ukraine. Many among the group lack proper identification documents, leading to prolonged and complicated identity verification processes. Georgian authorities classify them as a security risk, which has resulted in their restricted movement and inability to cross into Georgia. Despite the dire situation, the Georgian Interior Ministry alleges that the group has not made specific demands of the Tbilisi government. The group has made a formal appeal, which included a hunger strike notice delivered to Georgian border guards, the Ukrainian Embassy in Georgia, the Georgian Ombudsman, and human rights organizations. Their primary goal is to prompt urgent action from the Ukrainian government, especially given that they have been held in inhumane conditions with only limited access to food, water, and medical help. Witnesses highlight the degrading nature of their confinement, expressing deep concern for their well-being. This situation is further complicated by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the role Russia has played in the deportation of Ukrainian citizens. The Dariali crossing remains their only potential exit point after deportation from Russia. On July 19, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry reported that 43 of their nationals were successfully evacuated from the detention site. However, rather than returning directly to Ukraine, 56 of these citizens were transported to Georgia, a method criticized by Ukrainian officials. They contend that instead of being routed through Georgia, deportees should be taken directly to the Ukrainian border as a more humane and efficient solution.