The history of the “People’s Republics” before 24 February 2022 is both an important prequel to Russia’s ongoing war of aggression and a showcase of what awaits those Ukrainian regions who came under Russian occupation thereafter. The eight-year reign of local regimes that meandered between lawless banditry and military-bureaucratic dictatorships, the abolition of free speech, independent media and justice have created quasi black holes, where the complete disrespect for human rights is manifested by arbitrary detentions, incarcerations and torture.
The “People’s Republics” served as springboards for Russia’s invasion forces – as did annexed Crimea and Belarus. The territorial expansion of the „people‘s republics“ was accompanied by the destruction of eastern Ukrainian cities such as Mariupol, Sievierodonetsk, and Bakhmut. Clearly, any Ukrainian territory under Russian control will remain a massive security threat for Ukraine.
This year’s annual report covers the events in the year 2022.
War and Annexation. The “People’s Republics” of eastern Ukraine in 2022
