Polish Citizen Krzysztof Galos Dies in Russian Custody Following Torture.

Arrest of Krzysztof Galos

According to TSN.ua: Polish national Krzysztof Galos was detained by Russian security services and later died in a detention facility in Taganrog after being tortured. According to available information, Galos had entered Ukraine on April 14, 2023, but was reported missing on April 20, 2023. He was apprehended by Russian military personnel at a checkpoint in the village of Hryhorivka, Zaporizhzhia region. This case highlights the severe risks faced by foreign nationals in Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine.

Death and International Reaction

Krzysztof Galos died in July 2023 at SIZO No. 2 in Taganrog, Rostov region, Russia. The tragedy was reported by Gazeta Wyborcza in December 2025, sparking widespread international outcry. In response, Poland's Ministry of Foreign Affairs sent a diplomatic note to Moscow concerning the incident.

The Russian-installed official Yevgeny Balitsky effectively acknowledged the torture of the Polish citizen, stating, 'One Pole was telling us he was a tourist. And he didn't even blink. I even came myself to see this marvel.'

Ukrainians released from captivity have also testified to the torture inflicted upon Galos, describing the brutality of his treatment. They reported that Galos was 'beaten to death.'

This incident has provoked outrage within the international community and underscores serious potential human rights violations occurring within the context of the ongoing war. The death of Krzysztof Galos represents another tragic episode accompanying the prolonged conflict in the region.

Galos's death has caused significant reverberations in Polish society and beyond, calling into question the actions of Russian military and security services regarding international human rights norms. Diplomatic repercussions are likely as the Polish side demands a full investigation and accountability for those responsible. This case emphasizes the critical need for international cooperation in protecting human rights, especially during armed conflicts.