An investigation by the BBC has uncovered that Russia is systematically confiscating tens of thousands of homes in four Ukrainian regions it has illegally annexed: Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia. Official documents show that about 34,000 properties have been seized or are planned for seizure to be redistributed to Russian passport holders. This move is part of a deliberate campaign to reinforce Russian dominance in these areas, often referred to as "Russification."
The policy was formalized through legislation signed by President Putin and involves pressuring Ukrainian residents to adopt Russian citizenship or face losing their property. Many Ukrainians have fled, abandoning their homes, while others are coerced into compliance. This approach has led to widespread displacement and the destruction of communities, raising serious concerns about violations of property rights and international law. The report calls on the global community to respond to these abuses and hold Russia accountable for its actions.