IPI Calls for Immediate Release of Journalist Hennadiy Osmak from Russian Detention

The International Press Institute (IPI) has escalated its call for the unconditional release of Ukrainian journalist Hennadiy Osmak, who remains in Russian custody after being detained in March 2024 and later tried by Russia-aligned authorities in occupied territory. IPI’s statement, issued in late January 2026, underscores ongoing concerns about the treatment of journalists arrested amid the ongoing conflict and denounces what the organisation describes as unjust imprisonment on fabricated charges.

Osmak, a veteran local media figure and former editor-in-chief of the Genichesk-based outlet Noviy Vizit, was reportedly taken into custody by Russian occupying forces in Ukraine’s Kherson region in early 2024. Sources indicate that he was subsequently tried by a Russia-controlled court and sentenced to three years and two months in prison, accused under Russian criminal statutes of involvement with an alleged “unlawful armed formation” — charges widely disputed by human rights monitors and press freedom advocates.

In its appeal, IPI emphasised that Osmak’s detention reflects a disturbing trend of journalists being held and prosecuted without clear evidence, simply for refusing to cooperate with occupation authorities or for carrying out independent reporting. The organisation reiterated its demand for his release and urged the international community — particularly actors engaged in negotiations related to prisoner exchanges and civilian returns — to prioritise mediation efforts that include detained journalists.

IPI also highlighted broader patterns of pressure faced by media professionals in conflict settings, calling attention to the risks posed by politically motivated prosecutions and the use of legal systems to silence critical voices. The organisation reaffirmed its position that such tactics undermine fundamental press freedom principles and violate international norms.

Advocates for Osmak’s release have also raised alarms about his well-being in detention. Reports from human rights groups suggest deteriorating health conditions amid limited access to necessary medical care, increasing the urgency of international intervention. These developments form part of wider calls from press freedom organisations demanding accountability for journalists unjustly detained and protection for those reporting from or about conflict zones.

The IPI statement serves as a renewed reminder of the perilous environment confronting journalists in areas affected by armed conflict and occupation, and underscores the need for sustained international advocacy to secure their freedom and safeguard media independence.

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Ukraine: IPI demands release of journalist Hennadiy Osmak from Russian captivity