The Red Cross said its last visit to a Russian detention site was in 2024, and it currently "does not have full access to all PoWs," according to a spokesperson who responded to AFP by email.
Since Russia launched its full‑scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the two sides have swapped thousands of prisoners of war and are believed to be holding many more in captivity, with the ICRC having visited more than 9,800 detainees on both sides of the conflict, primarily in Ukraine.
The organization stressed that regular visits are a core element of its mandate under the Geneva Conventions, which require parties to the conflict to allow humanitarian monitors to see all prisoners and other persons deprived of liberty.
ICRC officials said the visits are essential for checking detention conditions, delivering basic supplies such as books and hygiene items, and relaying information between detainees and their families, who have a right to know the fate of their loved ones.
The Red Cross said it is seeking to regain access to Russian facilities so it can continue its work "consistent with our mandate," but it has not been granted permission to resume visits as of the latest statement.
The lack of access comes amid ongoing prisoner‑exchange talks, including a planned return of Ukrainian prisoners of war in August 2026 as part of a broader swap with Russia.